A surrogate mother who traveled to Texas to give birth after refusing the biological parents' request for an abortion over a diagnosed congenital heart condition has delivered a baby boy. The child, Gabriel, was born Wednesday.
Surrogate McKenna West had reportedly fled to Texas around the 20-week mark of her pregnancy after the intended parents allegedly asked her to terminate the pregnancy due to a diagnosis of hypoplastic left heart syndrome. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton's office intervened on West's behalf, notifying medical centers of their legal obligations to provide the infant with necessary, life-saving care.
"The court has made the right decision in immediately acting to protect baby Gabriel’s life and ensure he receives the care he deserves," Paxton stated. "My office utilized every tool at our disposal to protect life, and we will not back down in continuing to support baby Gabriel’s well-being. Every child in our state deserves to be cared for and protected, and that’s exactly what I’ll fight for."
According to Paxton's office, the intended parents had not agreed to consent to life-saving surgery for Gabriel after his birth. Paxton's intervention aimed to secure a legal victory ensuring the baby's life would be protected and care provided.
Gabriel was taken to a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit where he is expected to undergo surgery. A hospital noted in reports has a 100% success rate for the procedure.
"Baby Gabriel deserves a chance at life, and I will not allow anyone to unlawfully deny him medically necessary care," Paxton said. "My office will use every tool available to protect innocent lives and ensure that every child receives the care required under Texas law."