Help Mateo Ortiz, Born Brave

Hello everyone! My name is Ruth Garbers.

I'm making this gofundme in an attempt to share my grandson's story and ask for help from the community in this extremely difficult time.

My grandson's name is Mateo and he has a rare genetic condition called Alagille Syndrome. As a result, Mateo has liver disease, kidney disease, disease of the arteries, and a feeding tube. Often times, Alagille is also accompanied by heart disease. One of the common ones is Tetrology of Fallot - a heart disease that causes 4 major defects in the heart. In January, Mateo and his family have to take a trip to Stanford's Childrens Hospital in California for an extremely risky and complex surgery in an attempt to repair Mateo's Tetrology of Fallot and to completely reconstruct his pulmonary arteries leading from his heart into his lungs. If all goes to plan, this surgery will save Mateo's life. The procedure can take upwards of 24 hours to complete and there are often complications due to extra strain on other organs. They are expecting to be in California for at least a month after surgery if everything goes perfectly. The doctors have been transparent in saying that they need to prepare for the possibility of a much longer stay because of how complex Mateo's specific case is.

That being said, both of Mateo's parents will be out of work for an extended period of time, even after returning from California to continue Mateo's recovery at home. Unfortunately, insurance only covers the hospital bills and the cost of everything for this trip falls directly on their shoulders - travel costs, lodging, food, and anything else that is needed while away, as well as all of their regular bills.

I'm hoping that we can help ease the financial burden that my daughter's family will be dealing with while they are dealing with the most difficult time of their lives. Any amount helps and is very much appreciated. Thoughts and prayers are also very helpful. Thank you.

You can also donate via Venmo @Kristina-Garbers