This past week has been a tough one for the Nicholson family in ways no family should have to endure.

Right now, everything revolves around one thing — getting sweet Rhett healed and back home where he belongs. 

Rhett has been extremely sick and is currently hospitalized with a severe case of pneumonia. What started as an illness quickly became terrifying. His body has been rejecting antibiotics, he has developed a pleural effusion (fluid around his lungs), and doctors are now on the third round of antibiotic trials, desperately searching for something his little body will accept. He is exhausted. His family is exhausted. And still, he fights.

His CT is showing his lung is collapsed and filled with infection, lots of fluid around the lung. He is scheduled for surgery tomorrow. He will likely need a chest tube to drain infection after surgery. They are guessing will be here another week.

There is an incredible medical team working tirelessly to help him breathe easier, stabilize his condition, and bring relief — but this road has been anything but simple.

As if this medical crisis weren’t enough, the family has also experienced other deeply unfortunate events this week — hardships they are choosing to keep private as they try to survive moment by moment. The weight they are carrying right now is unimaginable.

Johrie, Rhett’s mom, is one of the most selfless, giving people in Boulder City. She is the person who shows up for everyone else — the one who brings meals, checks in, helps without being asked, and pours love into her community without ever expecting anything in return. Now she is sitting beside a hospital bed, watching her child struggle to breathe, running on fear, faith, and very little sleep.

No mother should have to be this strong.

Despite everything, the outpouring of love has been overwhelming. Friends, family, neighbors, and even strangers have stepped forward — offering meals, financial support, childcare for Rosie and Johrie’s mom, coffee runs, prayers, and simply showing up. Every gesture has mattered. Every kindness has been a lifeline.

But the fight isn’t over.

Rhett still needs prayers. He still needs strength. And this family needs support to carry them through the unknown days ahead — hospital bills, time away from work, travel, meals, and the countless hidden costs of a medical crisis.

If you feel led, please help this family who has given so much to others. Pray for Rhett’s healing. Share their story. Support in any way you can.

Their sweet boy is strong. But he shouldn’t have to fight alone.

Thank you for surrounding the Nicholson family with love during the hardest week of their lives. Updates will be shared as they are able.