Help Support the Mitchell Family

The Man. The Murph. The Legend.

Many of you know the Mitchell clan and their story. Nick, Kate(aka Warner), Lilly, Connor, and their newest addition Murphy. As several of Kate's closest friends, we are reaching out to you on behalf of this strong family for some additional help and support, as they themselves would never want to burden their loved ones with such a request. We know how greatly they appreciate all the help they have already received these past few weeks since Murphy's surprise early arrival, but as we all know, it truly takes a village sometimes.

Little Murphy made his triumphant entrance into the world on June 14th 2021 at only 32 weeks, weighing in at 4 lbs 3 oz and 17 1/4 inches long. Since then, Murphy has been in the care of the wonderful NICU staff at Baystate Medical Center, which Kate and Nick are incredibly grateful for knowing he is in the best possible hands while in this fragile state. In his few short weeks of life, Murphy has already experienced many ups and downs. At only 7 days old, he battled his way through major surgery and has more to come before he will be able to be discharged which, at this point in time, has yet to be determined.

Although the Mitchells are no stranger to the NICU, this situation has not been any less challenging than the one they experienced with their son, Connor. After his birth, Connor spent 21 days there while his mom and dad anxiously waited for him to be cleared to come home. Sadly, these situations are not uncommon and can be unbearable for many families, especially when it begins to affect work and the financial burden that is associated with such circumstances. Nevermind the physical and emotional toll that being separated from your child can put on a parent, especially when they are in such a condition and just beginning their beautiful life. While they both can visit him together most days, unlike many parents who could not during Covid-19, Nick and Kate must do this around the structured schedule of both Lilly and Connor, as well as Nick's work schedule. These conflicts and the physical aspects of giving birth have left Kate out of work and away from her 7Bs family whom she loves for the foreseeable future. With Murphy's condition ever-changing, its uncertain of when she will be able to return. Even upon his discharge, both Nick and Kate will find themselves out of work for several weeks following Murphy's transition from the NICU to home life. The realization of this current new way of life and the unknown is daunting both emotionally and financially for this headstrong team.

To know both Kate and Nick is to know their hearts and their strength. If you were to run into Kate today, you'd probably never guess the struggle and trauma she has been and still is experiencing since Murphy's arrival. You'd get the usual "How are ya!?" and a quick witted joke to say the least. The same goes for Nick's quiet strength and always kind, easy going personality. But as it has often been said, "Just because someone carries it well, doesn't mean it's not heavy". This situation is a perfect example of just that. Between fundraising to support Baystate NICU or the Run to Home Base for those in our military, selling tickets for a Jack and Jill, standing next to you on your wedding day, or just buy you a beer because they wanted to put a smile on your face, this couple has always been there for us. It's our turn to be there for them and help carry this heavy load.

For anyone willing to donate to help ease the financial stress of this amazing family during this difficult time, we, and especially Kate and Nick, are so incredibly appreciative. No amount is too small. Thank you so much for taking the time to read this and for considering to help with such a personal cause to us.

All the love,

Jane, Emily, Katie T and the Mitchell Clan