Jude's Dysphagia with Aspiration Fundraiser

Jude Perrin Ebersole was born on July 15th, 2020. Ian and Courtney were so excited and blessed to have a healthy little boy. After some initial issues during his first month, Jude was unexpectedly admitted into the hospital. After being monitored by multiple doctors, he was given an oxygen tank to help his breathing and make sure he could make it through the night with good oxygen levels. Continuing to look for reasons why Jude seemed unusually uncomfortable at times, his medical team ordered a swallow study. It showed that Jude was aspirating while eating, meaning every time he swallowed, some of his food would end up in his lungs. Since Jude was so small, the only option was to place a feeding tube in Jude's nose to bypass the airway. Watching their infant son cope with a medical procedure like this was of course difficult, but Jude showed a true warrior spirit. The doctors were hopeful that Jude would simply grow out of his condition, so Ian and Courtney took Jude home to wait it out. A few weeks later, Jude had a follow up swallow study, which unfortunately showed no improvement. Jude was officially diagnosed with Pediatric Dysphagia, a condition that is sometimes linked to a more serious underlying issue. After a couple more months, no improvement was made. To make Jude more comfortable, his nose tube was removed, and he underwent a surgery to input a stomach tube, or “G-Tube” for his nutrition and fluids. Jude continues to be monitored and tested, but the extent of his condition is still unknown.

Because of his dysphagia, Jude is considered a medically fragile baby and is unable to attend any child care due to liability and the risk of him getting sick or not receiving proper care. Jude’s feeding tubes need constant attention, and he visits his doctors multiple times per week. As a result, Courtney has been unable to return to work. Courtney and Ian were a two-income family who now find themselves in a much different financial situation. In addition to Jude’s medical expenses, they have had to move out of their condo and into a temporary rental home for 3 months due to construction noise and street noise that interfered with Jude’s ability to sleep.

Let's help reduce this financial burden so Courtney and Ian can focus on their number one goal - to help Jude get the care he needs and continue to let his smile light up the world. Any donation amount is appreciated, as are good thoughts and support. Courtney, Ian and Jude are forever grateful and vow to pay it forward!