Standing Strong for Scottie: Support for Caty

Hello, my name is Veronica and I am organizing this fundraiser for my niece Caty and her sweet baby girl, Scottie.

Caty became a mom on June 17 and has been nothing short of amazing. She works hard, is determined to build a better life for her daughter, and was enrolled in college this semester to begin her CNA program. But when Scottie was hospitalized at the start of classes, Caty had to make the difficult but obvious choice — she put school on hold to be by her daughter’s side every single day.

Caty had a scholarship but because she had to drop out the same week classes started she will no longer qualify for the scholarship when she is able to return.

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Scottie’s Story

Scottie was born perfectly healthy. She nursed well, gained weight, and was thriving. But in mid-August, everything changed.

• On August 14, Scottie suddenly became very fussy and inconsolable. At the ER, doctors suspected thrush and a UTI.

• The next day, she was worse and admitted to the hospital. Her first stay was from August 15–20. Doctors told Caty it was a milk allergy and that she needed to stop breastfeeding. Heartbroken, Caty listened and let her milk dry up. Unfortunately, this was not the true cause.

• Scottie began losing weight as she couldn’t keep formula down, and on September 2, she was admitted again — and she is still hospitalized today.

Scottie now relies on a NG-tube for feeding. She is on a strict schedule: 90 minutes of slow feeds, 90 minutes of rest, and repeat. Despite countless tests, bloodwork, x-rays, and procedures, doctors still cannot give a clear answer as to why she suddenly can’t swallow and keep milk down.

She is currently at a hospital over an hour away from where they live, where specialists continue searching for answers.

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Why We’re Asking for Help

Caty has shown incredible strength as a young first-time mom navigating this heartbreaking journey. But with Scottie hospitalized indefinitely, she faces overwhelming challenges:

• The ongoing medical care

• Travel costs to and from the hospital

• Everyday living expenses while unable to work or attend school

• Future needs for Scottie, such as specialized formula, equipment, or therapy. There is a big possibility she may have to go home with the G-tube

• Caty was planning on going back to work after her maternity leave, but there’s no way she can leave her baby side.

Caty has given her all to being by Scottie’s side — and now, she needs support from all of us.

As many know, Caty lost her dad (my brother) in October 2023 and her entire world changed after that. She and her sister Amber have truly displayed the strength and courage of their sisterly bond and both have been determined to make their life better. They got a little House together and made it a home. Amber is the epitome of a sister trying to help her little sister by working full time and showing up for her. They have displayed true resilience and never ask for help, but they need it now more than ever. But now, with Caty unable to work, Amber has become the sole provider, carrying the weight of all the bills as they continue to pile up.

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How You Can Help

Please consider donating to help Caty and Scottie during this uncertain and difficult time. Every dollar makes a difference — whether it’s $5, $50, or more. If you aren’t able to give financially, simply sharing this fundraiser means the world.

Caty’s only wish is to see Scottie healthy and thriving again. With your help, she can focus on being there for her baby without the crushing weight of financial worry.

Caty did not want to ask for help, but I have pushed her to do so because there was a time that I needed help and sometimes we need to accept help. There’s a difference between helping someone that is not trying to help themselves, but I promise you that my niece is one of the hardest workers that I know, she is beyond determined, she is an amazing young mommy and I couldn’t be more proud. I know what it’s like to feel defeated and feel as if you can’t get ahead and right now none of that is in her control.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your love, prayers, and generosity.

if you would prefer to donate directly, this is her cash app and Venmo

Cashapp- catyh18

Venmo- Caitlyn-Hunter