Surrogate's Refusal Leads Texas Court to Order Medical Care for Baby

Surrogate Declined an Abortion: The Court's Ruling

According to Radiotrek — Світ: An Alaska-based surrogate, McKenna West, declined to end her pregnancy after the fetus was diagnosed with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, a severe heart defect. The diagnosis came around the 20-week mark, and the baby, Gabriel, had shown normal results in earlier exams and genetic tests. West's refusal led the biological parents to sue her.

West later moved to Texas and decided to continue with the pregnancy. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton petitioned the court to ensure that Gabriel would receive treatment after birth, and the court agreed. Medical care, including surgery shortly after delivery, is now expected.

Next Steps

Gabriel is scheduled to arrive on September 2, and the court will reconvene on August 25. Until that next ruling, the baby cannot leave the hospital or be moved outside Texas. The story was shared on Friday, August 14, 2026, citing a New York Post report from August 12, 2026.

This case illustrates the legal and ethical turbulence that can surround surrogacy when the intended parents and the surrogate disagree on whether to continue a pregnancy. It also shows how swiftly such a private matter can turn into a public legal battle involving state officials.