Surrogate Mother Continues Legal Battle Over Newborn’s Heart Surgery

A surrogate mother is in a legal dispute after refusing to terminate a pregnancy despite the baby having a heart defect and pursuing custody after the infant’s surgery. McKenna West, from Alaska, who worked as a cardiac nurse, gave birth on August 12.

In an op-ed, West expressed her struggle, stating she was not allowed to hold the baby, only getting a brief glance while the umbilical cord was still attached. She fled to Texas to avoid the intended parents’ request to end the pregnancy after a diagnosis of hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) at 20 weeks.

The intended parents, Omar Ahmed and Nausheen Gilkar from California, contested West’s account. Their lawyer, Lee Budner, confirmed they consented to the surgery once the child was eligible.

The newborn, called Rumi by Ahmed and Gilkar, underwent the Norwood procedure—the first of three surgeries for HLHS—on August 17. Budner indicated the baby’s condition is still critical and accused West of making unfounded custody claims, defying court orders in Alaska and California.

An organization aiding West, Alliance Defending Freedom, explains her legal stance. She emphasizes that her actions are to ensure the baby receives necessary medical attention.

Lila Rose, from Live Action, supports West’s view, questioning the parents’ delay in consenting to surgery, which a court had to mandate.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton had stepped in to assert the legal duty of medical centers to offer needed care to the newborn.

As the legal confrontation continues, West insists on securing the baby comprehensive treatment.

Alliance Defending Freedom and Ahmed and Gilkar’s attorneys have been contacted for further comments.