Baby Flip (Phillip Jr.) was born in July 2016 and, much to our surprise, diagnosed with Pierre Robin Sequence, a rare condition in which a baby has a smaller than normal lower jaw, a tongue that falls back in the throat and a cleft palate or cleft lip,  all of which result in difficulties with breathing and feeding. Baby Flip has had two surgeries so far (jaw distraction and removal of distraction devices) and is about to have another (cleft palate repair). He cannot nurse and has to be bottle-fed with a special bottle. A lot of times, PRS babies also have difficulties with hearing and speech, and dental problems growing up.


Baby Flip stayed in the NICU for four weeks. During that time, mom and dad were lucky enough to be able to stay at the Ronald McDonald House, which helped reduce stress and costs. However, not all of his medical bills are covered by insurance, which is why we are looking to raise money to help cover the bills that are still (8 months later) coming in from his NICU stay, and any upcoming bills associated with doctor's visits, transportation to and from the hospital and specialty practices, as well as any future costs for appointments with specialists, such as speech therapists. 


We appreciate any and all help offered, financial and otherwise, and especially all the love and emotional support we have received so far! The past 8 months have been challenging, but also so very rewarding as we get to spend our days with this little bundle of joy. We know that we have more challenges ahead of us, and we appreciate any good vibes, happy thoughts and prayers you are sending our way!
Thank you,
Veronika, Phil Sr. and Baby Flip