Hello, my name is Anna Stachowski and I am fundraising for my nephew, Hayzen Richard Stachowski. Hayzen was born on September 5th, 2025. He was born at 7 lbs 14 oz and 20 inches.

We’ve been so incredibly blessed by the arrival of our beautiful Hayzen. His presence in our lives has already brought us immeasurable joy, and we are so grateful for every moment with him. He is truly a gift.

Hayzen has been diagnosed with severe hydranencephaly, a rare condition that affects brain development. While this means his time with us may be shorter — possibly up to a year — we are holding tight to every second, cherishing the love he brings into our hearts.

Despite the challenges, Hayzen continues to do the sweetest things — he sucks, eats, cries, and responds to our love in his own perfect way. His brain stem is intact, which allows him to do the basic things his little body is able to, even though his brain didn’t fully develop. Because of this, he won’t meet developmental milestones, and he is considered cortically blind — but he knows love, warmth, comfort, and our voices. And that’s what matters most to us.

Should he need help with feeding as he grows, we have caring options like a nasal feeding tube, supported by a wonderful team here at Sanford who will walk with us on this journey. Down the road, we may consider a G-tube if necessary — but for now, we’re following Hayzen’s lead and doing what makes him feel most safe and comfortable.

We’ve also been offered the option of a ventricular shunt, but for now, we’re choosing to simply be present — to hold him, love him, and let him just be. We’ll revisit that option if it becomes necessary, knowing it won’t change his diagnosis, but could offer comfort if needed.

Our goal is simple: to surround Hayzen with love, cuddles, and joy every day of his beautiful life. We plan to spoil him endlessly and make sure he knows nothing but warmth and peace in his time with us.

Thank you all for your continued prayers, love, and support. Hayzen is our little miracle, and we are so lucky to call him ours.

My family's mission is to provide our little Hayzen with the most positive life, even though it will be cut short. My hope is that this brings awareness to this heartbreaking condition, and possibly opens doors to future medical research.

Please keep my family in your prayers❤️