Hello, World!

My name is Nolan Herrera. You haven’t met me yet because I’ve been staying at Lurie Children’s Hospital since the day I was born—May 30th, 2025. I’ve had quite a journey so far, and I’d like to share a little bit of my story and ask for your help.

Once upon a time, there was a loving couple—my amazing parents—who were so excited to meet me after a long journey to become a family. But life had a different plan for our first moments together.

My mom had to undergo an emergency C-section, and everything happened so fast. I was quickly transferred to Lurie Children’s Hospital because I needed immediate medical support. My dad was doing his best to be strong for both of us. My mom didn’t even get to see me or hold me at first, and that made us both really sad. While she began to heal from surgery, I started my own journey here in the NICU.

I couldn’t breathe or eat on my own, so the doctors placed a trach to help me breathe and a feeding tube so I could grow stronger. After lots of testing, they discovered that I have a rare condition called Crouzon Syndrome. If you haven’t heard of it—don’t worry, most people haven’t! It’s a genetic condition that causes the bones in my skull to fuse too early, which affects my head and face. The good news? My brain and motor skills look great! But I will need many surgeries and long-term medical care to grow up strong.

So far, I’ve had three surgeries and I have a major cranial surgery and a bronchoscopy coming up soon. I’ve spent my whole life—over three months—in the hospital, and I’m really hoping I’ll get to go home by Halloween. I can’t wait to meet my four-legged big brother, Gibson, who’s probably wondering where we all are.

Now here’s where I need your help.

My mom and dad—Kim and Naim—have been by my side every day. My mom was supposed to go back to work, but I really need her here with me right now. I still have a long road ahead, with more surgeries and therapies to come. My parents are taking special classes to learn how to care for me when I finally get to go home. Even then, I’ll need a home nurse and specialized care for the years ahead.

This isn’t how any of us imagined the start of my life. But I’m lucky—I’ve got incredible parents who love me more than anything. They’ve stayed strong through everything, and now they need support from others to keep going.

If you’re able, would you consider donating to help my family stay by my side? Your support means everything to us right now. Every little bit helps keep my parents with me, helps with medical bills, and helps us prepare for what’s next.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. I can’t wait to leave these hospital walls and meet the world.

With love,

Nolan