Lucas, our newborn son, came into the world facing an unimaginable challenge. At 17 weeks during an Ultrasound appointment, he was diagnosed with gastroschisis, a birth defect where his abdomen did not form completely resulting in his intestine being on the outside of his body. Arriving five weeks early through an emergency c-section, Lucas has been in the NICU since birth, fighting every day to get stronger. As his father, I lost my job just before he was born, the day before Mother’s Day, and I am the only source of income for our family. We have no savings left, our gas is currently shut off, and we’re struggling to keep up with bills while supporting Lucas and my partner through this incredibly tough time.

The funds raised here will go directly toward our most urgent needs which are keeping a roof over our heads, paying our electricity and gas, and making sure we have a safe home to bring Lucas to when he’s finally able to leave the NICU. I am actively searching for work and preparing to become a police officer, but the next test isn’t for two more months. Until then, we are doing everything we can to stay afloat and give Lucas the best possible start in life, despite the complications and long road to recovery ahead.

Please, if you can, share our story and consider helping us through this difficult chapter. Your generosity means more than words can express. Every bit of support makes a real difference—not just for us right now, but for Lucas’s future and our hope for brighter days ahead. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for standing with us.