Donate to Baby Matthew's NICU Fight

Support for Baby Matthew’s NICU Journey

On March 16th at 9:33 PM, our world changed forever. Our son, Matthew Christopher Conrad, made his early arrival at just 23 weeks and 4 days, weighing 1 lb 4.1 oz. Though tiny, he is mighty—our little warrior, fighting every second in the NICU Level IV Small Baby Unit at Inova Fairfax Hospital.

This journey started unexpectedly. On March 13th, Kelsey went to what we thought would be a routine OB appointment. We were rushed to the emergency room for preterm labor and quickly prepared for surgery. Thankfully, the team was able to stabilize Kelsey enough to administer medication to help increase Matthew’s chances to fight but after just a couple of short days and despite every effort to keep him inside, Matthew decided he was ready to meet the world much too soon. An emergency C-section helped save his life.

The Road Ahead:

Babies born this early face a long, uncertain road. Matthew will be in the NICU for months as he continues to develop the strength he needs to survive outside the womb. Every day presents new challenges, but also victories.

Since birth, he has:

• Proven to be a fighter, breathing with ventilator support and receiving specialized care

• Avoided a brain bleed, a major risk for babies born this early

• Tolerated his first feedings of breast milk, a huge milestone for his gut health

• Started physical therapy and is being closely monitored for lung and bone development

But he still has a long road ahead. His lungs are fragile, and he will require intensive respiratory support. His tiny body is still learning how to regulate itself, and every day in the NICU is critical.

How You Can Help:

With Matthew’s early arrival, our world has turned upside down. Kelsey is recovering from her C-section and still experiencing complications with high blood pressure. Austin is balancing life between the hospital, work, and learning everything he can about neonatal care to advocate for Matthew.

We have been incredibly blessed with an amazing medical team, but the reality is that a NICU stay of this magnitude comes with overwhelming financial challenges:

• Medical expenses – While insurance covers some, many unexpected costs continue to arise

• Lost wages – Kelsey’s recovery and Matthew’s long NICU stay mean time away from work for Austin

• Travel and accommodations – Daily hospital visits, gas, meals, and staying close to Matthew are a financial burden

• Future needs – Once Matthew is discharged, he will need ongoing medical care, specialized therapies, and follow-ups

We never imagined being in this position, but we know that God is walking with us through this journey. If you feel led to support Matthew’s fight, whether through a donation, a prayer, or sharing this page, we are incredibly grateful.

Every dollar helps us stay by Matthew’s side and provide the best possible care for him.

To everyone who has already prayed, checked in, or offered support, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Matthew is already proving that miracles come in the smallest packages, and we can’t wait for the day when we bring our strong, healthy boy home.

Please keep praying for our little fighter.

With love and gratitude,

Austin and Kelsey Conrad

#MatthewStrong #Preemie #Preemiepower #Preemiestrong #FaithOverFear #TinyButMighty