U.S. Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler and her husband, Daniel Beutler, are expecting her second child, she announced in a Facebook post on Monday.
“As we prepare to celebrate Christmas with loved ones, we have another reason to be joyful this year,” wrote Herrera Beutler. “I am expecting a little brother for Abigail.”
Her daughter, now 2, was born three months premature and without kidneys, and survived what is known as Potter’s syndrome. Abigail’s survival of the often-fatal syndrome garnered national attention.
Besides some nausea, Herrera Beutler said her pregnancy has been smooth thus far and her physician expects a healthy child.
After Abigail was born, her fragile medical condition resulted in her mother missing the majority of the House votes until she was released from the hospital.
Amy Pennington, the congresswoman’s spokeswoman, said she stayed in touch with her constituents and staff during that time, and will do so again this time.
“Like many other working moms, Jaime expects to be able to continue to do her job representing the people of Southwest Washington effectively,” Pennington said.
Herrera Beutler, R-Camas, is serving her third term in Congress.
She recently co-sponsored a measure to create a nationwide network of providers to help medically complex children. She also is working on legislation to help parents “understand the limitations and benefits of prenatal screening provided during pregnancy.”
