Ellis James and Phoebe Gray Jackson

**EDIT 1/29/24**

With the heaviest of hearts, we wanted to share that our Ellis James passed on 1/29/24. His brain bleed and swelling became too severe and his condition deteriorated such that he was unable to heal even with medical assistance.

He passed while being surrounded by some of the people who love him most. Alfie’s mum was able to travel in to spend time with Ellis this morning and meet her newest grandchildren.

Erin and Alfie are of course grieving but at peace with their little boy no longer suffering. There has been an updated meal train set up to assist with meals for their whole family, particularly while Alfie’s mum is in town.

https://www.mealtrain.com/trains/dnozd3

Thank you again for your continued support of the Jackson 5

**EDIT** Erin has decided to take an extended leave of absence from her ~dream job~ teaching at FHS to help care for these sweet babes. Unfortunately, it's unpaid time off, so we are adding a higher fundraising goal to help alleviate any financial burden the Jackson 5 may experience during this leave. Thank you all so so much for your generosity!

Hi all,

Erin and Alfie were expecting twins late February 2024. The twins had other plans though, and this past Tuesday, November 14, Ellis James and Phoebe Gray Jackson made their early appearance into the world at 6:31 PM at 23 weeks, 6 days old. Ellis James weighed 1lb 11 oz and 12.5 in long and Phoebe Gray weighed 1lb 8oz and 12in long when they arrived. Erin and Alfie were certainly not expecting to go into labor that early but when Erin went into the OB to get checked, she was at 7cm and the Dr. made the executive decision to get the babies out. Erin delivered the twins via c-section with the on-call OB, Dr. Large, who said that although it was an emergency and all things considered, it was a flawless procedure and she was proud of the precision of Erin's incision. Erin got to hold Ellis' little hand before the twins were transferred to the UAMS NICU via 2 helicopters ~4 hours after they were born. Erin and Alf have since been able to go down to see them and get established at the Ronald McDonald house at UAMS to spend time with the babies.

When something like this happens, everyone's first question is, "how can I help?" and the perfect way to support them is financially. Erin and Alf will be traveling back and forth from NWA to LR quite frequently and there will be lots of expenses coming up including medical bills and travel including lodging and food. There is also a MealTrain setup to assist with meals - https://www.mealtrain.com/trains/ek09re

The Jackson 5 are such incredible friends and family, and deeply loyal to their people. This is a way we can all love them in return to help provide for their needs. Any amount given will be utilized for care for the twinnies and support the Jacksons. Thanks all for your generosity!