Help the Elliott Family Through Crisis

Hello, my name is Stephanie, and I’m writing this with urgency and a hopeful heart on behalf of a family that desperately needs our help—Ashley, Steve, and their baby boy, Ryder.

Ashley and Steve have always been the ones we call when we need something. Whether it’s coaching local sports teams, organizing community events, or volunteering at a moment’s notice, they’ve been the heart and hands of our neighborhood. But now, they are facing a crisis no family should ever have to face alone.

At just 25 weeks into her pregnancy, Ashley experienced a terrifying complication—her water broke far too soon. She was emergency life-flighted to Cedar Crest, where doctors tried to delay labor. Just two weeks later, she was forced to deliver. Tiny, fragile Ryder was born at only 27 weeks and spent a harrowing 76 days in the NICU fighting for his life.

That nightmare didn’t end when Ryder finally came home.

Since his premature birth, Ryder has endured more than most adults. He’s undergone one surgery already, has another coming up in June, and has been diagnosed with ROP (Retinopathy of Prematurity)—a dangerous condition affecting his eyes and vision. He requires constant care: physical therapy, speech therapy, and frequent trips to specialists hours away from their home. These appointments mean more missed work—and more unpaid time.

Meanwhile, the family has dropped to a single income just to make it through this medical rollercoaster. They’ve been drowning in travel expenses, NICU bills, and day-to-day costs that never paused while their world was turned upside down. And now, to make things even worse—their roof is leaking from recent storms, and their hot water heater is failing.

They are out of options. The financial strain is crushing. The emotional weight is unimaginable. They need us—right now.

Please, if you’re reading this, know that any donation you give—no matter how small—will have a direct, immediate impact. You’ll be helping this family keep the lights on, pay for medical travel, repair their home, and most importantly, continue giving Ryder the care he so desperately needs to survive and thrive.

Time is critical. Their situation is urgent. Let’s rally around them like they’ve done for so many of us.

Thank you for showing up for a family who’s always shown up for others.