Catholic Moms in the Middle

When Marisol and Garrett welcomed their second baby boy, Dominic, on August 13th, they had no idea the journey they were about to embark on. Diagnosed with Trisomy 18, a rare genetic condition, their story has been one of faith, heartbreak, and God’s undeniable presence. Many in the Nashville Catholic community have followed their journey, and in this episode, Marisol shares the incredible ways God prepared their hearts and guided them through every moment. From a meaningful connection with a cloistered nun to unexpected signs pointing to a Catholic geneticist on the path to sainthood, this story will leave you in awe of divine providence.

Marisol’s pregnancy seemed completely normal, even after a routine genetic test raised concerns. She and Garrett continued preparing for a peaceful home birth, trusting in God’s plan. But looking back, she sees how He was planting little seeds along the way—dreams, names, and even a documentary recommendation that all pointed to St. Jerome Lejeune, the very scientist who discovered the genetic cause of Trisomy 18. When Dominic was born at home, things took a dramatic turn. He struggled to breathe, and in those crucial first moments, Garrett immediately baptized him, grounding their family in faith before calling 911. Those first 15 minutes, though filled with uncertainty, became some of the most sacred and beautiful moments of their lives.

Marisol reflects on how God’s hand was in every detail—allowing Dominic to go full-term, preparing them for what was to come, and surrounding them with peace even in the scariest moments. She emphasizes how deeply a mother’s intuition is connected to the Holy Spirit, guiding her through decisions that ultimately saved her baby’s life. This story isn’t just about a medical diagnosis—it’s about surrender, trust, and the overwhelming grace that comes when we lean into God’s plan, even when it looks nothing like we expected. If you’ve ever struggled with trusting God in the unknown, this episode will remind you that He is always at work, even in the hardest moments.

Jennie Guinn is a Catholic speaker, Life Coach, Podcaster, Weekly Radio Show Host on Nashville Catholic Radio and Radio Maria USA, and the founder of Catholic Moms in the Middle. After 26 years of working in Catholic education, Jennie felt God calling her "to step out of the boat" to serve in a new way. In her new ministry, she equips and encourages middle-life women to encounter the love of the Father and to be transformed and healed by the power of the Holy Spirit so they can MAGNIFY Christ in their corner of the world.