Just a short 7 days ago, 7 month old Olivia “Livie” Flanders was a healthy and happy baby girl. Last Saturday, everything changed. After being awake and fussy for most of the night, Livie finally took some of a bottle. She couldn’t keep it down for long. After she spit up, she finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad knew she was exhausted and assumed she may be testing or maybe had an ear infection. By morning, Livie remained lethargic and was rushed to Children’s Hospital of Atlanta. Since then, the diagnostic process has been ongoing with a new addition to her list of medical issues .

After a spinal tap and MRI, a diagnosis of meningitis was confirmed along with sepsis, Haeomophilus influenzae B, Rhino virus, mastoiditis, and H flu. The swelling in her brain and spinal cord continue and plans are to place a drain. Livie has received both platelet and red blood celltransfusions as her blood cells are being destroyed by the virus. She continues to sleep most of the time and shows signs of pain when she wakes. She can not even hold her head up independently as a result of the neurological impact.

We still don’t know if Livie will pull through, but we all refuse to believe our angel will be sent home so young. We do know there will be a long road to recovery at best.

As you can imagine, the costs are climbing rapidly and both parents will need to take leave to care Livie. They have two sweet boys at home ages 7 and 13. Everyone is pitching in to help support the family as much as possible. I am asking all of you who read this to send Prayers, love and support for Livie. If you can spare a few dollars to help the family, it would be an enormous help.