As many of you know, our grandson Malakai was born at 33 weeks after Alexis developed severe preeclampsia. Because of this, Alexis had to stop working earlier than expected, and since Malakai’s arrival she has remained out on unpaid leave to care for him.

After his birth, Malakai spent nearly a month in the NICU before finally coming home just before Christmas. During that time, Alexis and Darryn stayed at the Ronald McDonald House so they could be close to their baby. They traveled back and forth constantly—so Darryn could get to work, to care for their other two boys, and so Alexis could pump and freeze milk for Malakai. With long days at the hospital and limited food storage, they had to eat out often, adding even more unexpected expenses.

Just when things seemed to be settling, Malakai was rushed by ambulance to the ER last week and admitted for another full week in the hospital. This meant more missed work for Darryn, more meals on the go, more travel, and more medical bills piling up. We still don’t have clear answers about what is causing Malakai’s health struggles, and they now face multiple upcoming appointments with specialists.

All of this has happened while Alexis has had no income, and the family has begun to fall behind on regular bills in addition to the growing medical costs. Right now, they could especially use help with gas for the constant trips to appointments, everyday expenses, and the medical bills that continue to arrive.

Alexis and Darryn are not people who ask for help. They both work in public service, spend their lives helping others, and are in the process of adopting the two boys they already love as their own. It’s hard for them to be on the receiving end, but they truly need support during this season.

Any amount—big or small—will help lift some of the weight from their shoulders and allow them to focus on what matters most: getting Malakai healthy and keeping their family strong. Even sharing this page means more than you know.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your prayers, kindness, and support.