Baby Joseph's Journey

Joseph Robert Duffy was born to Rich and Sara Ann Duffy on March 11, 2016. All seemed well....but his journey had just begun.

After a few hours, Joseph's sugar levels dropped drastically and he was put on an IV line through his belly button to deliver fluids and sugars. He was transferred to a bigger hospital (an hour away from home) for treatment overnight that night.

Joseph spent 19 days at that hospital, with little to no change and very few answers offered. Rich and Sara faithfully made the hour's drive to visit him, hoping for progress for their baby.

When none appeared to come, and as frustration and desperation grew, Rich and Sara advocated for their baby and arranged for Joseph to be transferred to Children's Lurie Hospital in Chicago (90 minutes from home). Within the first 2-3 days there, specialists were brought in and answers began...


It was determined that Joseph was suffering from partial heart failure. In addition, a retina specialist determined that his eyes were severely in need of medical attention. Joseph was diagnosed with two rare eye conditions and is scheduled for retinal surgery later this month.

In the meantime, Joseph continues to fight. After three hospitals and countless doctors, he has begun to show some signs of getting stronger. However,  it is undetermined when he will be able to come home.

Sara drives in to Chicago every day to be at his side all day, while Rich continues to provide for the family by working 12 hour night shifts. Big brother Braxton is ready for normal life again...


As with any extended health crisis, the impact is felt not just medically and emotionally, but financially. The hospital bills have begun to arrive and the daily expenses involved with simply visiting Joseph (gas, parking, etc.) are accumulating.

In addition to prayers, Rich, Sara and baby Joseph will be in need of financial support.  Please consider donating to help them begin to tackle their medical bills as well as their everyday expenses. They are grateful for every donation, big or small, as it will help take some of the stress out of this journey as it continues.