Sweet Baby James, The Warrior Kid

This page was created to raise awareness of Sweet Baby James’ condition, share his journey and provide support to his family. Medical bills are expected to reach unimaginable levels after insurance for his care now, his future surgical needs and the medicinal costs they will likely have forever.

James Kallen Griffin was born in October 2020, the youngest of 4 children and their only son. His middle name is Kallen, which is Gaelic for Warrior, that's exactly what he is. He fought his way into this world and his fight continues. He is adored by his 3 older sister's Kaylee, Raegan and Teagan, who lovingly call him Sweet Baby James.

Baby James was born with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) which means his kidneys only function at about 10% of what is considered normal. Kidney function less than 15% is considered Kidney Failure. Baby James has endured multiple surgeries already in his 5 months, including surgery to unblock his urinary tract, a vesicostomy, and surgery to place a feeding tube in his belly. He is scheduled for surgery in the next week (April, 2021) to install another line through his belly, to prepare him for Peritoneal Dialysis. Little man is then scheduled to start dialysis in May, after Mom and Dad go through about a week of training. The training will prepare them so they can administer his dialysis at home. The hope is that dialysis will stabilize Baby James and help him thrive to grow and age to a point the doctors need him to be to receive a kidney transplant. Doctors are planning for a transplant about two years old. Mom and Dad will begin the testing soon for kidney donation, to hopefully be a match with Baby James.

April (Mom) is amazing and has enthusiastically taken on the role of Baby James’ Nurse flawlessly, which is a full time job. Calculating and administering Baby James’ medications, supplements, feeds and his least favorite, shots. On top of being a full time care taker, driver, etc. to Baby James’ big sisters and biggest cheerleaders Kaylee (16), Raegan (14) and Teagan (6).

Dad is a Marine who served one combat tour in Iraq and was honorably discharged in 2004. Dad has served for 15 years in the Special Operations Community, working and training alongside the most elite military and Law Enforcement units in the world. Dad currently serves as an Instructor in his agency's Special Operations Training Section.

Jim and April have so much to focus on with Baby James' care, their family and honestly, our country.  We thank you for being here.

#sweetbabyjamesthewarriorkid #esrd #babyjames