Bracston's Journey

On February 28th, 2017 our son Bracston Michael Larkoski graced us with the gift of becoming parents. His arrival was bittersweet because we knew we'd only have limited time with him.

Bracston was diagnosed with several congenital defects including esophogial atresia, anal atresia, vertebral anomolies, transposition of the great arteries (heart), fused kidneys, hydrocephalus (this combination of defects is known as VACTERL-H), lobar holoprosencephaly, and optic nerve hypoplasia. We were informed he would probably be born premature as a result of the esophogeal atresia which leads to polyhydramniosis a condition that leads to extra amniotic fluid. 

We chose to carry
Bracston until nature stepped in, at which time we would provide comfort care for him. Comfort care is an option given to parents who are faced with situations similar to ours, this option provides only the comforts required to ensure your child doesn't suffer, but does not provide medical intervention. This option gave us the opportunity to hold and love Bracston for as long as possible. Because he had multiple, severe defects he would have required intense hospitalization and multiple surgeries. Even if he had made it through the necessary surgeries he still would have faced mental delays, blindness, troubles eating, and possibly seizures. We chose comfort care because we believed that was the best choice we could make for him.  

No parent ever wants to say goodbye to a child that was so, so, so very much wanted. His time was too brief and he left behind a future of memories never made. Bracston only knew love;
he was made with love, carried in love, and born into love. 

We are asking for help with funeral and medical costs. The cost of discovering Bracston's diagnosis required several specialist visits and medical tests that added up rather quickly. These costs in addition to funeral costs have caught us somewhat offguard. I don't think anyone is prepared emotionally or financially to handle such a tragic event and that is why we are asking for your help. The money will help to ease the strains of a terribly tough situation and any contributions would be greatly appreciated.