Hello,

My name is Stephanie Rishavy, and this October, I’m running to support a cause that is very close to my heart—the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Children’s Hospital.

In 2018, during my third pregnancy, I was under close monitoring due to a high-risk history. At 31 weeks, an ultrasound revealed that my daughter was measuring small and in distress. I was admitted to the hospital, and on October 23rd, just before midnight, I delivered my daughter, Xochitl, via emergency c-section. She weighed only 3 lbs 0.5 oz and was immediately taken to the NICU at Children’s Hospital.

From the moment she arrived, we felt incredibly fortunate to have her in the care of one of Minnesota’s top children’s hospitals. The skilled nurses and physicians not only provided expert care but also gave my husband and me the tools and confidence to care for our premature baby once we left the hospital.

Xochitl’s main challenge was gaining weight, and thanks to the compassionate and knowledgeable team, she steadily progressed. The NICU nurses supported us every step of the way—even teaching us how to manage her GERD. After about a month, once she reached 4 lbs, we brought her home—a moment full of gratitude and hope.

To honor the incredible care we received, I’m running the TC Half Marathon this October to raise funds for the NICU at Children’s Hospital in Saint Paul. Every donation, no matter the size, helps ensure other families receive the same life-changing care we did.

Your generosity will directly benefit babies and families who need it most.

Thank you for considering a donation—your support truly makes a difference.

With heartfelt gratitude,
Stephanie Rishavy