Extraordinary Èadhas Journey

**Eadha Hayes**

I am reaching out to share the story of my niece, Éadha, who was born on June 19, 2024, four weeks premature. She is currently facing several significant health challenges, including tracheoesophageal fistula (TOF), esophageal atresia, duodenal atresia with annular pancreas, and spinal abnormalities—collectively referred to as VACTERL association. Additionally, she has developed tracheomalacia (floppy trachea) as a complication from her TOF surgery, requiring five surgical procedures on her trachea in an effort to avoid a tracheostomy. Unfortunately, despite these medical interventions, Éadha now requires a tracheostomy and is expected to endure a lengthy recovery process, which will likely involve approximately one year of hospitalization at Crumlin before transitioning to full nursing care at home.

As a result of Éadha's health conditions, she will need two full-time caregivers, which means one of her parents will be unable to work during this time. This situation is particularly challenging for her family, especially for her older sister, Brenna, who just turned two and is feeling the impact of not having both parents at home. My sister Catherine, a trained nurse/midwife caregiver all her life now needs support as her sister I feel this is the least I can do.

To support them, I have created a GoFundMe campaign to help alleviate some of their financial burdens. Any contributions would be greatly appreciated, especially given the difficult circumstances many families are currently facing. Thank you for considering supporting Éadha and her family during this critical time.