Hi everyone!

****(Update 2-16-26)*****

An update on Owen: His emergency surgery today did not go as was hoped for. He is intubated, on a paralytic, and in a medically induced coma, to allow for his little body to rest and heal before the next plan. Please continue to send him prayers, love, and strength. We are so grateful for you all.

I’m creating this GoFundMe for my sweet nephew, Owen, who is about to undergo a very intense and life-changing surgery on February 5, 2026. Owen will be in surgery for over 6 hours, undergoing 8 different procedures, followed by a long hospital stay and recovery period.

As you can imagine, this is an incredibly overwhelming time for our family—emotionally, physically, and financially. Between medical bills, extended hospital stays, time off work, travel, and daily expenses, the burden can add up quickly.

On top of everything insurance denied paying for Owens surgery. BUT this surgery is very important in Owens health. My hope is to ease some of that stress so our family can focus on what truly matters: Owen’s healing and strength.

Owen is a fighter. He has already shown us what true resilience looks like, and we believe with everything in us that he will get through this too. Any donation, no matter the amount, will go directly toward helping with medical and recovery-related expenses. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this page or keeping Owen in your prayers means just as much.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your love, support, and kindness during this difficult time. We truly couldn’t do this without our village.

With gratitude,

Katie

***A little back story if your new here:

Matthew and Miranda Wagner welcomed Owen a month and an half early on January 15th 2025.

Due to emergency C-section for decreased movement .. Owen suffered from HIE (due to lack of oxygen & blood to brain/ other organs .. most important kidneys, gut/ intestines). He was on dialysis for 2 weeks to remove toxins .. he was having 5-8 seizures a hour for 3 days until they got them under control..

He suffered from a major infection in his intestines ..upon discharge day in March; Owen was found septic in room with his belly the size of a balloon.

Emergency surgery was done for frozen abdomen from NEC..

In May surgeon removed a 3rd of the small intestine.

Then 5 days after surgery Owen’s intestines started leaking due to a kink in his small intestine.

Leading to another emergency surgery for more bowel resection.

Due to leaking of bowel into abdomen; Owen went septic for the second time.

Owen came home for the first time in July!

Still battling challenges in and out of hospital.

Due to HIE and seizures; Owen developed infantile spasms (type of epilepsy). Went on high dose steroids that lead to a GI bleed.

Now Owen is on to his next biggest challenge which will be life changing for him..

Thank you everyone again for your time and support.

#owenstrong