In February of this year the Hudgins family doubled in size growing from two to four welcoming their twin boys, Creed and Lincoln, on February 6th, 2024. They were born five weeks early and have been diagnosed with an extremely rare genetic abnormality called Verheij Syndrome caused by abnormal changes/mutations to the PUF60 gene. Most cases of this disorder develop sporadically during embryonic development and is not preventable. Both boys are still being assessed to determine what other battles they might be facing.

Verheij Syndrome includes skeletal abnormalities including hands, feet, and spine, cardiac and renal defects, growth and cognitive delays. Future complications can include vision and hearing impairments, feeding difficulties, and communication difficulties. The first scientific journal about Verheij Syndrome was published in 2009. The genetic disorder is so rare that there are fewer than 50 children with the syndrome worldwide. Since the boys share DNA they both have the disorder.

Lincoln is the stronger of the two with minimal symptoms currently showing. Creed is facing more challenges with many of these symptoms, including breathing troubles, clubbed feet, scoliosis, and two findings on his heart. Treatment for both boys will include constant appointments with several specialists and future therapies.

Lincoln recently came home to be with his family. Creed's NICU stay is currently undetermined. The family is traveling over an hour each way to be with Creed as often as they can. Now, however, they have to juggle between having a baby at home and having one in the NICU. Megan and Michi are pulled as two parts of their hearts are now separated between two different places. The only thing new parents should worry about is trying to sleep when the baby sleeps and snuggling their babies. Parents shouldn’t have to worry about balancing those snuggles and how quickly they can bring the twins back together.

A NICU stay in the U.S. can range from $3,000 to $20,000 per day. In severe cases where infants require prolonged stays or multiple surgeries, the total cost can soar into the hundreds of thousands or even cross a million dollars. New parents should not have this great worry and financial burden. The only thing the Hudgins family needs to worry about is bringing Creed home. This GoFundMe won’t bring Creed home, but it will give Megan and Michi room for hope and one less thing to worry about.