On November 4, 2021, baby Gunnar was welcomed into this world early at 27 weeks, weighing only 2 lbs. 7 oz. via an emergency C-Section. Mommy was visiting family 3 hours away from home when the complications began. Mommy was rushed to the hospital and baby Gunnar was born. There were some complications and he needed surgery in the next couple of weeks due to a diagnosis of Necrotizing Colitis (NEC). As time moves on, baby Gunnar has been an amazing patient, a NICU rockstar! Since he was so small and needed major surgery, he will be in NICU for a while. He does need additional surgery in January as well.
Mommy has been staying with family in order to see baby Gunnar, however, he was transported to a higher level NICU in Dallas. Mommy has come back to OKC metro to be with the rest of her family (Daddy, Big sister, & Big brother). Daddy & Mommy have traveled back and forth between OKC and Dallas on daddy's days off in order to be with baby Gunnar. Big sister and Big brother have been staying with family in the OKC metro when this occurs.
The time has come to where baby Gunnar can be transferred to OU Children's Hospital in OKC because he is stable. This will allow baby Gunnar's family to be together and not have to leave part of them behind every week in order to make the 3-hour drive to see him. Being near his family is very important and allows the family to continue to be together as he continues to strive! Being home near mommy and daddy will help since they will be able to see him daily and continue holding and talking to him, forming the unbreakable bond needed for growth and perseverance.
Everything is ready, both hospitals are ready for the transfer, however, the cost of the transfer is required upfront for him to come home to OKC. Baby Gunnar needs to be home with his family, and the hospital in Dallas has only positive things to say about his transfer and recommends it.
We all covet your prayers and appreciate all of the donations and support that has already been provided that has
helped with gas and hotel costs for the trips back and forth. The donations provided through gofundme will cover the cost of his transfer to OU Children's and provide some financial relief for the family that has accrued during this difficult holiday season. Not only is this an emotionally taxing time for the family, the financial burden has also been difficult.
Mark & Taylor are an amazing mom and dad and to know them, you would see the heavy burden on their shoulders as they try to keep things as normal as possible for two young children at home as well as be with baby Gunnar as much as possible.
Thank you for walking beside them during this journey and helping get baby Gunnar home!