Baby Finley Stapler

Johnny and Lauren have not asked for help, however some of their friends are aware of the financial strain that the extended stay at Birmingham Children’s Hospital, along with the transition to a one household income for the immediate future and possibly indefinitely can have on them so they wanted to make it easy for people to be able to help them through this time. Any contribution is greatly appreciated and will be put to good use.

Please read Baby Finley’s story below.

On December 24th, Johnny and Lauren found out they were going to be a family of five. What an incredible Christmas gift! After telling family, and a few close friends, they made an appointment to see an OB. They had an ultrasound and everything was normal. Bloodwork was done to test for genetic abnormalities and to find out the gender. On February 24th, they found out that they were having a little girl and that there were no genetic markers that would lead doctors to believe she would have any genetic differences. At her 20 week appointment, Lauren was diagnosed with gestational diabetes, and referred to a high risk specialist. At that appointment on May 15th, Johnny and Lauren were told the baby had a small abdominal circumference, and would potentially be underweight at birth. They continued with weekly appointments in Birmingham and Huntsville for testing, ultrasounds, and added assurance. It was decided that 37 weeks was a safe gestational age to deliver at. On August 18, they welcomed their sweet Finley James to the world. She was 6 pounds and 8 ounces of absolute sass, and nothing less than perfect in their eyes. They have learned more about patience, acceptance, and faith in the few weeks that they have had her than any other situation has ever taught them.

Finley was born with an open abdomen and many other anomalies, but she is so tough! She has been at Children’s Hospital in the NICU since two hours after being born, and doctors are saying it will be into next year before they get to come home. Finley will have to undergo multiple surgeries and do a lot of growing before she’s ready to be discharged. The obstacles she has already overcome have made them so proud and shown them how strong our girl truly is! They couldn’t be more in love with her. God knew exactly what he was doing when he gave her to them. She has been the perfect addition to their family, and they can’t wait to take her home!

Please help Johnny and Lauren through this difficult season of their life so that they can focus all of their attention on Baby Finley.