Michelle Bower and her husband, Michael, from Indiana, faced intense abortion pressure from doctors after a routine prenatal scan revealed their unborn daughter had myelomeningocele spina bifida, the most severe form of the neural tube defect.
Despite repeated recommendations to have an abortion, Michelle’s response was immediate and unwavering.
“We met with the doctor right after the scan and heard the words ‘neural tube defect’, ‘lemon-shaped head’ and ‘spina bifida’ to describe our daughter for the first time,” Michelle recalled. “We were at a complete and total loss. The tears didn’t stop flowing for a couple of days.”
REACH PRO-LIFE PEOPLE WORLDWIDE! Advertise with LifeNews to reach hundreds of thousands of pro-life readers every week. Contact us today.
Referred to a specialist, the couple learned the case was considered severe, and abortion was strongly advised.
Through tears, Michelle replied: “That is not an option, I already love her!”
The Bowers chose to save their baby girl and love her instead.
Lacey Grace underwent successful in-utero fetal surgery to repair the spinal lesion. She was born on July 20, 2020.
Doctors had painted a very grim picture beforehand, warning of a poor quality of life and suggesting she might never eat, breathe, talk, or achieve independent mobility. The family has consistently shared that Lacey Grace has far surpassed those early predictions.
Now a spirited elementary-school-aged girl, Lacey Grace is described as athletic, determined, and full of joy. Recent family updates on social media highlight her ongoing progress and daily life:She attends school regularly, where teachers report positive days, and she is praised for her bravery.
Lacey participates in gymnastics, works toward Special Olympics goals, and practices skills like walking with crutches while showing improvements such as bending both knees.
The family celebrates small victories, including better mobility, time playing outdoors, sliding at water parks, and simply enjoying sunshine.
Like many children with spina bifida, she manages related challenges such as constipation issues and skin abrasions on her legs and knees, sometimes requiring days at home from school for care.
The Bowers frequently post with hashtags like #SpinabifidaAwareness, #Overcome, #Fighter, and #DisabilityAwareness, emphasizing perseverance, accessibility, and the power of hard work.
Michael has expressed hope that one day Lacey might walk without crutches, while proudly documenting her strength and independence.
The family maintains a dedicated presence through pages such as “Laugh like Lacey – Her journey with Spina Bifida” and the website laughlikelacey.org, where they share her story to inspire others and raise awareness.
As of recent posts in 2026, Lacey continues to thrive with the love and support of her parents, proving resilient amid the daily realities of living with spina bifida.
This story remains a powerful example of parental love, the impact of fetal surgery, and the potential for meaningful life even when initial medical prognoses are discouraging. While challenges persist, the Bowers celebrate Lacey Grace’s smile, achievements, and fighting spirit every step of the way.
