Help Baby Stella on Her Journey

On February 27th at 10:30 a.m., my beautiful niece Stella entered the world and immediately stole our hearts. She is the daughter of my brother, Isaiah Folsom and his wife, Kenzie Folsom.

Shortly after birth, Stella was diagnosed with Saethre-Chotzen Syndrome, a rare genetic condition that affects how the bones of her skull develop. Her CT scan showed that both of her coronal sutures are prematurely fused, meaning her brain cannot grow the way it normally should due to the skull not being able to expand.

Because of this, Stella will need major cranial surgery at just a few months old, which is scheduled for May 7th. Her doctors have recommended cranial vault reconstruction with springs, a complex procedure to open the fused sutures, allow her brain to grow safely, and help reshape her skull.

In addition, Stella will require frontal orbital advancement (FOA)—a procedure that reshapes and repositions the forehead and upper eye sockets. This is an important part of her care to help protect her vision, create space for proper eye and brain development, and improve the structure of her skull as she grows.

These are not cosmetic procedures—they are necessary to relieve pressure, protect her brain, support her vision, and give her the best possible start in life.

In addition to her skull condition, Stella’s journey will include:

• Ongoing monitoring by specialists including neurology, genetics, and craniofacial teams

• Vision monitoring due to the structure of her eye sockets

• Follow-up procedures, including another surgery at 6 months for the removal of the springs after her initial surgery

• Developmental monitoring as she grows

While we are hopeful and encouraged by many positive signs—Stella is eating well, responding to voices, and already showing her little personality—there are still many unknowns ahead.

As you can imagine, this has been incredibly emotional and overwhelming for Isaiah and Kenzie. They are doing everything they can to stay strong for Stella while navigating appointments, hospital stays, and the uncertainty that comes with a rare diagnosis.

We are creating this GoFundMe to help ease the financial burden during this time, including:

• Medical expenses and hospital bills

• Travel and time off work for surgeries and appointments

• Lodging and meals during hospital stays

• Ongoing care and therapies and future surgeries.

Most of all, we are asking for your prayers, support, and love for Stella as she faces these challenges so early in life.

Stella is already showing us how strong she is. We believe in her, and we are surrounding her with as much love as possible.

If you feel led to give, share, or simply keep Stella in your thoughts—we are deeply grateful.

We believe strongly in the power of prayer, and we welcome any prayers for Stella, her healing, and for strength and peace for Isaiah and Kenzie in the days ahead.

Thank you for supporting our sweet girl