Banks Nelson & Family

Hello everyone,

We are starting a GoFundMe page for Banks Nelson, who is the 5 month old son of Brady and Carly Nelson and little brother to Briggs. Banks was a fraternal twin; his twin brother Wesley Theo, was born at 21 weeks and graced this earth with his presence for 30 minutes. We believe Wesley Theo continues to watch over his family as they navigate this journey. Banks was born at 35 weeks and had a short stay in the NICU. He has defied the odds from day 1. He went home with no complications and though small, he is mighty.

After a couple of months, jaudice was noted so his parents took him for evaluation. Labs revealed elevated liver enzymes and bilirubin. Further testing at Childrens Hospital in Omaha showed biliary atresia, which means his gallbladder became fibrotic (hardened). This caused bile to back up into the liver causing inflamation. Banks had his first surgery, a Kasai, on April 27th. This surgery reconstructed his intestines and started a new pathway so the bile could drain. Surgery went well and though his recovery has been difficult, he is a warrior still smiling for everyone he sees.

Due to this diagnosis Banks will have to be on medications lifelong. This has been difficult for the family to process; still they remain steadfast, trusting God is present and has a plan. Intitally after the Kasai, labs were showing improvement. Recently, the liver enzymes were elevated and bilirubin skyrocketed. As a result, Banks was admitted to be started on antibiotics. After many tests to rule out infections and surgery complications, Banks's doctor thought it was best to be evaluated for a liver transplant. Banks and his family are currently at UNMC and as of June 21st, Banks was put on the transplant list. He will be monitored closely until a liver becomes available.

On June 27th Banks had a procedure called a paracentisis to drain the fluid off of his abdomen and provide him some comfort. Banks has been taking small amounts of breastmilk by mouth, but is recieving supplemental nourishment through TPN. He is being monitored closely while surrounded by family. Banks and family have been through so much in his 5 months. Banks still manages to smile for his parents, brother, grandparents, aunts and uncles.

This has been an emotional journey with many ups and downs. Carly, Brady, Briggs and both of their families continue to take one day at a time. This family is one of the strongest in faith that you will ever come into contact with. Even so, everyone needs support when they are going through something like this. Although such a private journey, anything to help lighten their load or make their days ahead a little easier would be greatly appreciated. Lets show the Nelsons that we are all with them and are here for them as they navigate this incredibly difficult journey. When something like this happens, life expenses on top of medical expenses don't stop, so please consider praying for, donating, or sending well wishes to the Nelsons in any way you can.

"Fear not, for I am with you, be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10

If you want to follow Banks's journey, a Caring Bridge has been created, here is the link: https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/banksnelson?fbclid=IwAR0zyvnFTYGD7oz_sAFpORZVh-JPRjlD3eZMr68Jp-rAuipy0QqBghzaASw_aem_AeUSvp7ZsQxEJASx2oV9oM-jVh-RQGrlY0Ob3EZcbNdam2HMeRhPxzhOd33-lEC6RFE&mibextid=Zxz2cZ

If you have type O Blood and are interestd in becoming a living liver donor for Banks, please fill out the UNMC application, linked here: https://www.onechartpatient.com/mychart/publicforms.asp?mode=showform&formname=CustFrmLiverDonorScreening

Thank you and God Bless

Love,

The immediate and extended families of Carly, Brady, Briggs, Banks & Wesley Nelson