The tremendous Tracey Van Orsow with her twin daughters Adelaide and Mackenzie (4). Tracey saw midwives in her early pregnancy, she was measuring a bit large and thought that perhaps her dates were off so the sent her in for an ultrasound. They discovered they were having twin girls and though Tracey says she had a feeling her husband was quite shocked. Her midwives were unable to continue her care but she was able to find a doctor she adored who was very supportive of however she chose to give birth. Her pregnancy progressed very well and she went into labor at 36 weeks +1 day. Her doctor had recommended she get an epidural just in case she had to deliver via cesarean so she did but was still very aware of her body. Adelaide came out first without any complication but Mackenzie was breech so her doctor reached in and pulled her out by her feet. Both of her girls were healthy and were able to stay with her after their arrival. Tracey tried to breastfeed but the girls never got a good latch and she struggled with supply. She tired for 6 weeks and saw a lactation consultant but ultimately decided to transition to formula. While she still feels some guilt about not breastfeeding it is a tiny guilt and she knows she did the best thing for her family.
Last year, Tracey was diagnosed with stage four colorectal cancer and when she initially registered for her session she had a colostomy bag. She said that for a long time she felt very uncomfortable in her skin and had a difficult time adjusting. She was determined though, to step in front the camera and simply embrace her self and her story. Three months ago Tracey's cancer went into remission and she was able to have a colostomy reversal. She wanted to capture this moment with her beautiful daughters as she works to embrace and celebrate her strength which has become her focus.