Rallying our #AJSTRONG Army

Hi! I'm Allie-- the proud sister to AJ Fish (he's the handsome dude in the photo!)

For those of you who don't know AJ, he's pretty special. AJ is a 24-year-old non-verbal rockstar with Down Syndrome and Autism. About four years ago AJ endured an extended hospital stay fighting off pneumonia and RSV. After battling multiple intubations and various treatments, it was ultimately decided that a trach and vent would be the best solution for him long term. He has been trach and vent dependent ever since.

On Saturday, July 9th AJ was admitted to Christiana Hospital in Newark, DE with pneumonia and a deflated lung. He's been fighting to get rid of infected fluid in his body through two chest tubes. We are learning that this process is slow, and the duration of his hospital stay is currently unknown.

Due to the AJ being nonverbal, my parents are essential to his care. They have been staying in his hospital room with him. Even though AJ functions very much like a child, resources or families of children, such as The Ronald McDonald House, are not available to help in this situation.

Many people have reached out with a desire to help. For that reason, I am swallowing my pride and humbly asking for support for my parents for meals, lodging, etc.

Thank you for the many prayers and well wishes that are surrounding AJ and our family at this time. Keep them coming! If you would like to stay updated with AJ's progress, feel free to follow along through the Caring Bridge platform--https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/ajfish