Hope for Hudson

Melissa & Levi got the heart wrenching news at just 18 weeks into their 3rd pregnancy, and first baby boy that he had spina bifida.  They quickly became ready to face the challenges ahead, and love this sweet baby through anything the future may hold for him.  They gave him the name Hudson John.  He was born at 38 weeks on Dec. 11th, had his closure surgery for his spine on Dec. 12th and was released from the hospital just 8 days later on Dec. 20th.  After getting good reports from the doctors it quickly changed when on the 2nd night at home, he began leaking spinal fluid from his incision site.  This brought on his 2nd surgery to place a shunt in his brain to drain excess fluid. (hydrocephalus).  Which also showed he had contracted bacterial meningitis.....a very serious infection.  He started IV antibiotics right away and eventually had to have a feeding tube placed to help insure he gets enough nutrients despite being uncomfortable thru fighting this infection.  He is looking at a long road ahead, with at least another month or more in the NICU.  

Financially the medical bills, travel expenses and just living expense in general are adding up very quickly.  Melissa runs a full time daycare (when not on maternity leave), and Levi is a full time mechanic.  Not to mention one of the most caring couples you will ever meet.  Levi is the first in the neighborhood to offer to mow someones lawn who needs a helping hand, or to snow blow the driveways....not to mention just being a friendly neighbor to visit with while outside.  Melissa cares for many children who are not her own, and loves them as her own.  She is calm, patient and loving to anyone she meets.  

As a community, let's show them our full support and give whatever you are able, and if unable at this time, please offer some prayers for Hudson's full recovery and that he can be rejoined with his family who loves him dearly at home.