A surrogate mother, McKenna West, gave birth to a baby named Gabriel in Texas against the wishes of the biological parents after fleeing to the state for protection. Around 20 weeks into her pregnancy, Gabriel was diagnosed with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, a severe heart defect. Following the diagnosis, the birth parents allegedly requested that West have an abortion, according to a news release from Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton's office.

West's move to Texas prompted Paxton to intervene by formally notifying UT Southwestern Medical Center and Children’s Medical Center of Dallas of their legal obligation to provide Gabriel with "medically necessary, life-saving care upon birth."

Paxton stated, "The court has made the right decision in immediately acting to protect baby Gabriel’s life and ensure he receives the care he deserves." He further emphasized, "Baby Gabriel deserves a chance at life, and I will not allow anyone to unlawfully deny him medically necessary care."

The surrogate's baby was born on Wednesday, August 13, 2026, and the hospital where the surgery is expected to be performed reportedly has a 100% success rate for the procedure. Paxton's office affirmed its commitment to using every available tool to protect innocent lives and ensure that every child receives care as required under Texas law.

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Texas, Attorney General Ken Paxton, Baby Gabriel, McKenna West, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Children’s Medical Center of Dallas