Help Holden & Alyssa Through His Surgery & Recovery

Hi everyone,

I’m reaching out during one of the most challenging times of my life. My son, Holden, was born seven weeks early on December 9, 2024, after I was hospitalized with severe preeclampsia. He spent time in the NICU at St. Peter’s before being transferred to Albany Medical Center, where he was diagnosed with a Type III laryngeal cleft, a rare and serious birth defect.

A laryngeal cleft is an abnormal opening between the larynx and the esophagus, allowing liquids to pass into the lungs instead of the stomach. Because of this, Holden is unable to bottle-feed and recently transitioned to a gastrostomy tube after multiple struggles with nasogastric tubes. Due to the severity of his condition, Holden will need surgery, which is tentatively scheduled for April 7th, pending adequate weight gain.

Holden finally came home on January 23rd, but we’ve had multiple hospital visits since then due to complications. My maternity leave started on December 5th, and I am currently scheduled to return to work on March 20th. However, I desperately want to stay home longer to be with Holden as he recovers—but I am deeply concerned about covering rent and any medical expenses that may arise.

Any donation, big or small, will help ease this financial burden and allow me to be there for Holden during this critical time. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser would mean the world to us.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your kindness and support. Holden is a strong little fighter, and with your help, I can ensure he has the care and comfort he needs to heal.

With gratitude,

Alyssa Barrett