The community is coming together to support Hunter and Taylor Hutchinson as they prepare for the birth of their first child, Baylor, who will require major medical intervention shortly after entering the world.

A few weeks ago, doctors diagnosed Baylor with a congenital heart defect known as Transverse Arch Hypoplasia. Cardiologists have also raised concerns about the size and function of her mitral and aortic valves on the left side of her heart. While those measurements are slightly smaller than normal, specialists will not know the full extent of the issue until Baylor is born and additional testing can be completed.

What doctors do know is that Baylor will need open-heart surgery within the first few days of her life to repair or reconstruct the arch. If the left side of her heart does not function properly, she may require an even more intensive procedure immediately after birth, followed by two additional surgeries as she grows.

Because of the complexity of her condition, Taylor will deliver at UAMS in Little Rock, Ark. Within hours of birth, Baylor will be transported to Arkansas Children’s Hospital for testing and monitoring as doctors finalize a surgical plan. She will also require an umbilical line with continuous prostaglandin to keep blood flowing properly until surgery. After the operation, she is expected to remain in the hospital’s Cardiac Intensive Care Unit for at least four weeks.

“This isn’t something any parent expects to face,” organizer Glinnis Hutchinson said. “Baylor will have quite a journey and so will Hunter and Taylor. We just want to help lift some of the financial burden as they navigate this.”

To support the family, Hutchinson has launched a GoFundMe with a goal of raising $2,800 to help offset travel, lodging, medical and recovery-related expenses.

In addition, a large community fundraiser has been scheduled for Dec. 13 at the Sharp Multipurpose Building, 410 Houser Street in Sallisaw, beginning at 11 a.m. The event will feature a shopping vendor fair, fish fry and an auction, with all proceeds going directly to the Hutchinson family.

Cindy Smith, investigator with the Sequoyah County Sheriff ’s Office Special Victims Unit, said organizers are currently seeking vendors for the event.

“Let’s support Hunter and his family,” Smith said. “Every vendor fee and donation goes straight to helping them cover medical costs.”

Vendor spots are $25, with all fees benefiting the family. Those interested in participating can contact Glinnis Hutchinson at 918-2351297 or Rachel Fair at 918-315-2023.

Community members can also donate directly online through the GoFundMe campaign.