Help us support Jack's medical journey.

My son, Jack, was born seemingly healthy and happy. However, as he developed, we noticed he wasn't meeting his milestones. In Texas, we consulted numerous specialists, including neurologists, but no one could pinpoint the issue, suggesting only that he might be on the spectrum. This diagnosis didn't align with Jack's symptoms, which included recurring infections and high fevers. By age three, he had undergone four surgical procedures to improve his breathing and reduce his susceptibility to illness, yet doctors remained baffled by the underlying cause.

As the years passed, Jack's symptoms worsened. He suffered from constant fatigue, difficulty focusing, periods of being lost in thought, and deteriorating coordination. We knew something was seriously wrong. By what we believe NOW was divine intervention, we moved to Minnesota, unaware of the journey ahead. There, Jack began physical therapy. His therapist noticed an issue with Jack's trigger finger and recommended a consultation with their neurologist. We then traveled to the world-renowned neurologist who ordered an MRI. The radiologist's diagnosis revealed the truth: craniosynostosis, specifically Chiari malformation—a condition where the cranial cavity closes prematurely, restricting brain growth. At ten years old, Jack's brain had no room to expand; it was being compressed down into his spinal cord, causing a cerebrospinal fluid leak that threatened paralysis and other severe complications. We were stunned that none of the Texas specialists had identified this condition earlier. In that moment, we felt God had guided us to Minnesota to save our son.

Emergency surgery was imperative, as stated by the neurologist. This high-risk, 12-hour procedure involved a team of three specialists: an ENT, a reconstructive plastic surgeon, and a neurosurgeon. They fitted four skull traction devices to gradually expand his skull. These devices required meticulous adjustments twice daily for five weeks to create sufficient space for his brain. The initial surgery was deemed a success. However, after returning home, Jack's surgical wound began to tear. We discovered he was having an allergic reaction to the medication, requiring an emergency readmission for wound closure. Due to the recent surgery, he experienced significant blood loss and became critically ill. By God's grace, he recovered.

Unfortunately, the wound continued to present challenges, accompanied by recurring fevers. Finally, a consultation with doctors from Cuba offered a solution for healing his wound. After weeks of specialized treatment at home, it began to close. Remarkably, we noticed Jack's speech, movement, and energy levels were also improving dramatically. He was finally able to sleep through the night—something he had never experienced due to the pressure on his nasal passages. Well-rested for the first time, he began to thrive in school. It was a true transformation, confirming the surgery's positive impact.

After a few months and numerous follow-up appointments, Jack underwent another painful procedure to remove the forehead traction devices. Upon returning home, we diligently monitored the insertion sites for infection. After weeks that turned into months, it was time for the final stage: the removal of the skull traction devices. This delicate procedure required reopening his scalp, something we all dreaded. After a few more days in the hospital, Jack was finally able to go home.

Jack's journey has been incredibly challenging, marked by adversity since birth. Jack has been a true warrior. Thanks to God and the dedication of his medical team, he now has the chance to live the life he was destined to live.

Unfortunately, the move to Minnesota meant leaving my business behind and starting over. Even with my wife's new job, our income wasn't enough to support a family of five while also managing the significant financial burden of numerous hospital visits, extended stays, and medical bills. So we are now humbly asking for support from our friends and community to help with these ongoing expenses, as Jack will require continued consultations to monitor his progress. Any contribution, no matter how small, would be deeply appreciated. If you are unable to donate, we kindly ask that you share Jack's story. Thank you for your time and consideration. God bless.