Xandan and Xane Hartmann-Sanborn

The story of the birth of our twins began August 25, 2015. My water broke at 5:30 a.m. After being taken by ambulance to St. Cloud Hospital, I found out that my amniotic sac ruptured and now one of my twins was without the fluid needed to cushion him from bumps and injury. I was scared and on my own. Jon, their dad, was working construction out of state. Fortunately, his company allowed him to fly home, so eight hours later he was by my side. By that time, my doctor decided she wanted to try to keep the twins inside me for at least another two weeks.

That plan lasted for two days. While touring the St. Cloud Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) on August 27, I began having contractions. I soon learned I was dilated to 4 cm. The twins were breech and my doctor had concerns about the umbilical cord. I would need a Cesarean birth. I was scared and didn't know what to expect!

At 4:58 p.m. Xandan Karl Hartmann-Sanborn was born at 4 lbs., 16 1/2 inches and at 5:02 p.m. Xane Brice Hartmann-Sanborn followed at 3 lbs., 14 oz., 16 inches. Originally due on Halloween, they were born two months and two days early. Despite my nerves and concerns, the Cesarean birth was actually the most beautiful experience ever! We could not have asked for a better delivery! The boys came out beautiful and healthy, and Jon and I fell in love with them!

The NICU became our lives for the next 45 days. I learned so much in this time. I now have a whole new respect for the capabilities of tiny babies! By nurturing their little needs, the NICU gave my twins the strength to fight hard and make life happen. It's the most beautiful thing a person could ever be a part of! The NICU nurses, doctors and staff were welcoming, caring and willing to answer my questions. We had the triplet room and honestly it felt like a small hotel! We felt so spoiled and thankful!

The onsite March of Dimes NICU Family Support Program helped me stay active and capture precious moments. I participated in everything from infant massage and milestone bracelets to personalized journals and free photography sessions.

If I ever win a million dollars, I'd give half to the March of Dimes NICU Family Support Program. I feel that's how much I received in knowledge and support during our NICU stay! It was honestly priceless and I am forever grateful for this program and all it did for us!

Thank you so dearly,

Jon, Chelsea, Xandan and Xane