Caring Causes: Preeclampsia Foundation

“Some people dream of angels, we got to hold one.” Those are the words of Nicole and Tim Purnell, who lost their son Cooper on the day he was born, December 28, 2005. It happened so fast. After a seemingly normal pregnancy, Tim rushed Nicole to the hospital when she woke up with excruciating abdominal pain. When they arrived, they were told that their son was gone. Severe preeclampsia and placental abruption had taken Cooper’s life. “I did get to see and hold my son,” said Nicole. “He was beautiful, wrapped in a white blanket with a blue stocking cap on his head. He had huge hands and dark hair.” After two surgeries to save her life, Nicole spent five days in the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit and four more days in Post-Op. Nicole was discharged from the hospital without her son, a grief no parent should know, and faced many years of recovery, both physically and emotionally. After their devastating loss, Nicole and Tim were determined to build a legacy in memory of Cooper, so that his short life matters. For 10 years, they spearheaded the Promise Walk for Preeclampsia in Dallas, Texas. They’ve raised thousands of dollars, supported dozens of families, and continue to donate to the Preeclampsia Foundation in memory of Cooper. They’ve also experienced the joy of having a healthy baby girl named Lorraine, who was born on Nicole’s birthday just over three years ago.

Nicole and Tim turned their tragedy into action to not only help them heal, but to make sure that no other parent suffers the loss of a child.

As the nation’s only patient advocacy organization dedicated to preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome, moms and babies are depending on us to save them from these hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Your generosity helps us advocate for policies and practices to prevent maternal and infant deaths and illnesses,educate and support our community, and fund research to find a cure. Please donate as you are financially able. You might also consider making a recurring gift to support the Preeclampsia Foundation year-round, and participating in an employer matching gift program if available.

DONATE