Pregnant Woman Discovers Shocking Diagnosis After Experiencing Nagging Cough

In a quiet corner of Washburn, Illinois, MaKenna Lauterbach’s life revolved around her family, farm, and the anticipation of welcoming her first child. But a persistent cough during her pregnancy turned into a life-altering ordeal that tested the limits of her strength and love. This is not just a story of medical intervention—it’s a testament to the resilience of a family and the unshakable bond between a mother and her child.

A Silent Threat

The story began with a persistent cough that MaKenna noticed during her pregnancy. Despite her active lifestyle on a farm filled with horses and goats, the cough was relentless and left her unusually breathless. "My body felt like I just ran two miles, when in reality, I had only walked to the barn and back," she recalled. Local doctors hesitated to perform chest scans to protect her unborn child, but as her pregnancy progressed, the cough worsened, and MaKenna was eventually hospitalized with severe shortness of breath.

What doctors discovered was harrowing: a grapefruit-sized tumor was obstructing her chest cavity and right lung, compromising both her and her baby’s ability to breathe. As her condition deteriorated, she was airlifted to Northwestern Memorial Hospital, where a team of specialists prepared to take swift, decisive action.

A Race Against Time

The hospital’s maternal-fetal medicine team, led by Dr. Lynn Yee, recognized the gravity of the situation. “MaKenna was in real trouble, and we had to act quickly,” Dr. Yee explained. The tumor, coupled with the physiological changes of late pregnancy, put MaKenna at risk of respiratory collapse and cardiac arrest. Early on Easter Sunday, the team performed an emergency cesarean section, delivering a healthy baby boy, Colter.

Despite the chaos, Colter brought a lightness to the family. “Colter's the best baby. He's always happy and sleeps through the night,” MaKenna shared, her voice full of gratitude.

A Family’s Strength

While doctors worked on a treatment plan for MaKenna, her husband, Parker, became her anchor. Together, they navigated the whirlwind of parenting a newborn while facing an aggressive form of cancer. Their moments in the hospital were filled with gratitude for the life they had created and the support they found in each other. “I’m so grateful to have Colter and Parker in my life,” MaKenna reflected.

Their farm back in Washburn became a symbol of stability and hope. The couple envisioned returning home with their son, building the life they had always dreamed of—filled with love, laughter, and the simple joys of family life.

Looking Ahead

With her cancer currently stable, MaKenna’s days are now focused on her recovery and cherishing milestones with her family. She celebrated her 27th birthday in October and recently enjoyed Colter’s first Christmas on the farm, surrounded by the warmth of family and the peacefulness of rural life. “There’s something about being home,” MaKenna said. “It makes you appreciate every moment.”

Her journey, though filled with challenges, is a story of resilience. It’s about the unyielding love of a family that stood firm in the face of uncertainty. As MaKenna’s son grows, she looks forward to sharing this chapter of their lives—a story of strength, faith, and the power of togetherness.