Maddox Jace Rivenbark

Maddox Jace Rivenbark was born on June 17,2014 to McKenzie Miller and Doug Rivenbark. He weighed 5 pounds thirteen ounces and measured 17 inches long. Mom and baby did well during delivery at Northeast Medical Center in Concord, NC. After birth and plenty of cuddles, it was determined that Maddox needed additional medical care due to a skin condition. He was transferred to UNC Chapel Hill Hospital, where he can receive specialized Pediatric Dermatological diagnostic care and treatment. McKenzie received a transfer from Northeast to UNC Chapel Hill the following day to complete her cesarean recovery with Maddox. At this time, it has been determined that baby Maddox has a rare skin disorder called epidermolysis bullosa, referred to as EB.  These children are often referred to as butterfly children because their skin is as fragile as a butterfly wing. At birth, most of Maddox's skin was blistered, peeling or gone mostly on his legs, hands, feet and arms.  Since birth he has been wrapped in special gauze dressings and saturated with Vaseline.  When Maddox comes home, he will have to have the same level of wound care which on average will cost $4000-$7000 a month. For example, one 3x8" specialized gauze cost $3.20.  He will need many of these daily.  
Currently Maddox's insurance is pending and could take up to 3 months to activate. This means that all supplies must be paid for out of pocket.  These supplies he must have are critical to decrease his risk for infection and promote healing. Despite these obstacles, we continue to embrace the outpouring and love from everyone.  As you can imagine, an open wound is extremely susceptable to infections and access to supplies for his bandages  and dressings are crucial to his life.  Most of the children with this rare condition do not die from the condition. They often cannot heal from secondary infections and such infections are fatal. All funds that's we raise will be used directly for his care and medical supplies. Please help us give this precious child the best chance at a beautiful life.
To learn  more about Maddox please visit caringbridge.org/MaddoxRivenbark.  To learn more about This serious illness please visit Debra.org.  
Doug, McKenzie and Maddox sincerely appreciate the love, care and prayers they are receiving and would like to invite you to follow their journey with Maddox.