Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG) is a severe form of morning sickness that can be life-threatening for both mother and baby. It causes extreme nausea, vomiting, weight loss and dehydration. Women with HG may be hospitalized and need IV fluids and nutrients. Babies are at risk for preterm birth and developmental issues. The condition can have long term physical and emotional impacts on women and their ability to have future healthy pregnancies. Support groups like the HER Foundation provide resources and hope for women suffering from this condition.

1. Hyperemesis Gravidarum When the joy of creating life turns into a struggle for survival and hope I wish that I had never tried to get pregnant I wish that in a few months I would be able to hold my baby I Wish . . . In Honor of Casey Lee Lost and Loved Angel

7. A Journey Through Severe HG For some women, the vomiting is so severe that they must be placed on PICC lines or feeding tubes to help sustain them and their developing babies. “ I have had IVs every week for 4 weeks and my arms have bruises up and down them. I have been trying to fight off having to have one because of the risks, but it has got to the point where I am 92 pounds . . .” “ I was having a ton of iv's and my arms were covered in bruises. “

9. Where to Find Help www.HelpHER.org Information Support Hope The HER Foundation was founded in 2000 by a registered nurse, Kimber Wakefield MacGibbon, after suffering from nine months of severe hyperemesis gravidarum. “ Hyperemesis Education & Research Foundation provides education & support for mothers suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum and those who care for them.” With the right information, we can help others. HER Foundation

10. What HG Has Done to Me . . . Karen You don't know me now Warm smiles, Dreams, Raucous laughter Energy, Passion ,Drive That was all before Before the flood of vomit came pouring out of me Ripping out my soul, my mind Taking with it the sure knowledge of who I am and what I am capable of All that is left is the memory of dark rooms and dark places in the corners of my mind that I did not know existed and fear may rise again There is no joy in creating life for me . . . Just the endless torment of days spent hoping, to no avail, that I could eat, or drink, or at least sleep until it was over At the end of each day there is no hope Just the prospects of another day with this new person Merely a shadow of my former self for a part of me died with you and now there is no reward Lost and Loved Angel In Honor of Casey Lee