Hi everyone,

We’re reaching out to share what has been the scariest and hardest week of our lives. Our 4 month old son Liam was taken to the emergency room on Thursday night with a very high fever over 103. After several hours, he was sent home around 4:30am with a diagnosis of pneumonia. He was started on antibiotics and Tylenol, and we were told to closely monitor his fever.

The next night at 11:30pm, everything changed. While drinking a bottle, Liam suddenly passed out in my arms. On the way to the hospital, he lost consciousness multiple times. I never thought I would have to do something like this but I had to stay calm and keep him conscious until we got to the hospital. Those moments were terrifying and something we will never forget.

When we arrived, Liam was rushed into emergency care and placed on high flow support. He was started on IV antibiotics and treated aggressively for pneumonia and what doctors initially believed was a viral infection. Despite five days in the hospital on IV fluids and antibiotics, he continued to spike high fevers.

After further evaluation, the doctors diagnosed Liam with Kawasaki disease. Kawasaki disease is a rare inflammatory condition that mainly affects young children. Infants under 6 months make up less than 5 percent of Kawasaki disease cases, making it especially rare in a 4 month old. Because it is so uncommon at this age, it can be harder to recognize and often presents more severely.

This disease causes inflammation in blood vessels throughout the body and can directly affect the heart. In Liam’s case, the inflammation caused multiple aneurysms in his arteries. He also experienced persistent high fevers, a swollen tongue, redness in his eyes, and extreme discomfort. Without close monitoring and treatment, Kawasaki disease can be life threatening, especially when the heart is involved. Liam will require long-term monitoring and care to manage his heart and overall health.

Liam is now being transferred to London’s Children’s Hospital to receive specialized care. He will be closely monitored and treated by a pediatric cardiology team to manage his illness and carefully watch his heart and aneurysms.

At the same time, we are also caring for Liam’s 15 month old brother. We are being pulled in many directions while trying to stay strong for both of our boys.

Blake, who operates Refuel Respite, works hands-on with many families who have loved ones with autism across Windsor Essex. Even in this unexpected crisis, he’s making sure those families continue to get the support they need.

Over the next several months, we will be traveling back and forth from Windsor to London for hospital stays, treatments, appointments, tests, and follow ups. The emotional toll has been heavy, and the financial strain is growing quickly.

We are asking for help during this incredibly difficult time. Any donation, no matter the amount, would mean more than words can express. Your support will help us stay close to Liam, care for his brother, and keep essential supports in place while we focus on Liam’s recovery.

Thank you for taking the time to read this, for caring, and for supporting our family during one of the hardest moments of our lives.