The stunning Jen Mendoza, Benjamin (3.5), Evelyn (2) and Gabriel (2 months).
Jen is a previous project participant, you can view her initial photo and story here.
Jen has a history of losing her ability of smell and taste during her pregnancies. She has had to have several surgeries to remove polyps from her sinus cavities as a result but her doctors never understood quite why it was happening. She had her third surgery in October of 2014 and went back in February, newly pregnant with Gabriel, to learn that all of her polyps had returned. It was then that they realized the polyps must be forming in reaction to her pregnancy hormones. While she hasn't been able to have any further treatment, knowing why it's happening has given her peace of mind.
Jen had a rough go of things early in her pregnancy due to all the complications in her sinuses but things improved as her pregnancy progressed and this side of things she says she only remembers the good. Jen had her third cesarean scheduled but went into labor the day prior so she was able to experience a bit of labor before she was taken to the OR and Gabriel was born without complication.
Jen had to wean Benjamin and Evelyn after just a few months to resume medications or have surgery but she's looking forward to continuing to nurse Gabriel for as long as they enjoy. Things have gone beautifully thus far and she's enjoying the relationship with him.
It was important for Jen to return and share this part of her story with her new baby. She wants to leave a legacy for all of her children, especially her daughter, that is full of positivity and love.