Pregnant woman and baby saved after doctors find grapefruit-sized tumor

A Chicago woman was just weeks away from giving birth when a nagging cough led to a shocking medical discovery that changed her life forever. MaKenna Lauterbach, a 26-year-old farm owner from Washburn, Illinois, began experiencing severe coughing fits in the last trimester of her pregnancy. Despite seeking medical help, some doctors dismissed her symptoms as a normal part of pregnancy.

However, when the coughing became so severe that it led to vomiting, scans revealed a large tumor in her middle chest cavity and right lung, completely blocking the artery to her right lung. The tumor, diagnosed as stage 3 melanoma, was a rare case that posed a serious risk to both Lauterbach and her unborn baby.

Rushed to Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, Lauterbach underwent an emergency cesarean section, delivering a healthy baby boy named Colter. Following the birth, a medical team worked swiftly to address the tumor that was endangering her life. The tumor, which had invaded major blood vessels near her heart, required a risky surgery to remove her entire right lung and parts of the main pulmonary artery.

Despite the challenges, the surgery was successful and Lauterbach’s latest scans showed no evidence of metastatic melanoma. She has since undergone immunotherapy treatments to further combat the cancer, with a positive prognosis for the future. Lauterbach’s son, Colter, is now a thriving baby boy, bringing joy and strength to his mother during her recovery.

As Lauterbach continues her healing journey, she emphasizes the importance of listening to one’s body and advocating for proper medical care. She encourages other women to trust their instincts and seek thorough medical evaluation if they suspect something may be wrong. With the support of her family and medical team, Lauterbach is looking forward to celebrating her son’s first Christmas on the farm and embracing the new normal in her life.

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