Ariana’s Fight through NICU

Help Us Be There for Ariana, Our Tiny Fighter

My name is Ty, and I’m writing this as a father who feels completely heartbroken yet full of hope for my baby girl, Ariana. She wasn’t supposed to arrive until May, but our world changed forever when she was born 16 weeks early, at just 23 weeks and 3 days—barely past the point of viability. At 1.2 pounds, she is so small, so fragile, yet somehow so strong.

Ariana has already faced more challenges in her short life than most of us ever will. She’s fought through two major events in the NICU and is now battling a new issue. She’s on an oscillating ventilator, taking over 100 breaths per minute because her tiny lungs just aren’t developed enough to do it on their own. Watching her struggle like this is the hardest thing I’ve ever had to endure as a parent. Seeing her surrounded by machines, wires, and alarms, and not being able to fix it for her, leaves me feeling helpless and broken.

Her mother, Shelby, is a fighter too. She suffered a placental abruption and spent over two and a half weeks in the hospital trying to give Ariana the best possible chance. Every extra day Shelby kept her safe inside was a miracle. When our little girl arrived, she came out kicking—so fierce and determined, even at 23 weeks. That determination is what keeps us going every single day.

This journey has turned our world upside down. Ariana is expected to remain in the NICU until at least May 11th, and the cost of her care is staggering—between $3,000 and $20,000 per day. While we have insurance, it only covers part of the cost. On top of this, Shelby and I both want to take unpaid leave through FMLA to be by Ariana’s side, which means we’re losing our income at a time when expenses are mounting.

We also have an amazing 11-year-old son, Wes, at home. He’s growing up faster than ever, stepping into the role of big brother with so much love and patience. But I know it’s hard for him too—adjusting to so many changes while watching us spend so much time at the hospital. And as if we didn’t have enough on our plate, we just discovered a roof leak in the home we purchased barely a month before Ariana’s arrival.

They say it takes a village to raise a child, but in our case, it feels like we need a whole city. We’re reaching out for help because we can’t do this alone. Your support will help us:

• Cover Ariana’s medical bills and ongoing NICU care

• Provide for our family’s needs while Shelby and I take unpaid leave

• Manage unexpected expenses, like the repairs for our roof

• Support Wes and ensure he has stability during this challenging time

We’re sharing our story because Ariana is fighting with everything she has, and as parents, we’re determined to do the same. Every breath she takes is a reminder of her strength. She has a long road ahead, and there are no guarantees, but we will never stop believing in her.

We plan to share our challenges and victories along the way so every donor can see the difference your kindness is making. Whether it’s a small milestone like gaining an ounce or a big moment like coming off a ventilator, we want you to feel like a part of Ariana’s journey.

If you’re able to give, no matter the amount, it would mean the world to us. If donating isn’t possible, sharing our story or keeping Ariana in your thoughts and prayers is just as meaningful.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for supporting Ariana, Wes, Shelby, and me. Your generosity gives us hope during this heartbreaking yet hopeful time.

With love and gratitude,

Ty, Shelby, Wes, and Ariana