Beverly Heath became an aunt for the second time Wednesday when Brandon Matthew Scott was born at Carson-Tahoe Hospital.
But while her 4-year-old nephew, Bailey, passed out bubble gum cigars in celebration of becoming a big brother, she was working on a way to help her brother and his wife.
Brandon, 8 pounds, 1 ounce and 22 inches long, was born after an emergency caesarean section and with three holes in his heart. He will require surgery in San Francisco fix the one doctors say won't close on its own. At press time, he was in stable condition at the Neonatal Intensive Care Center at Washoe Medical Center. Surgeons were on alert to fly to Reno if his condition becomes critical.
"Only half of his blood is being oxygenated," Heath said. "He's in ICU at Washoe Med."
Heath, her brother, Jerry Scott, and his wife, Michelle are longtime Carson City residents and graduates of Carson High School.
"I've been her about 27 years," she said.
They are seeking help from the community to help pay for the trip to San Francisco so Brandon can have the surgery and for help with the medical bills.
"We're strapped," she said. "Our family would like to request most importantly, your prayers as we believe God hears and answers all according to His will. May God richly bless each and every one for your prayers and support during this time."
A fund has been set up for Brandon at Colonial Bank in Carson City. The bank is at 901 N. Stewart St.
Contributions can also be sent to Brandon's grandmother Saundra Scott in care of her business: S&W Sealing and Striping at 1175 Airport Road, Carson City, Nev., 89706.
For information call Heath at 883-8048.