Finding a hotel in Texas, the couple planned to stay a few days and return home after the storm was over. After seeing the devastation and flooding on television; however, the Gardners realized other living arrangements had to be made quickly in anticipation of their child’s birth in just a few short weeks. Unable to return home, they traveled to St. Louis, where Stephanie has several relatives.

     On Sept. 20, SSM DePaul Health Center staff helped Stephanie deliver her first child, a 6-pound, 8-ounce girl, named Kenadi. The baby, though healthy, will need therapy for a dislocated kneecap discovered at birth.

     The good news for the Gardners was that their home appears to have received little damage. Their employment situation is more uncertain, since both workplaces suffered significant damage.

     When SSM DePaul staff heard the family had left all their baby supplies behind in New Orleans, they worked to gather necessary items for the young couple, including donations from area businesses.

     Westley and Stephanie cannot say enough about the hospitality they’ve received from their new St. Louis neighbors. The family plans to stay in St. Louis for several weeks to allow Stephanie to recover while they wait to find out more about their employers and their home.