Stand by Baby Elias on His Journey to a Healthy Heart

Support Baby Elias on His Journey to a Healthy Heart

Hello, my name is Emjay, and I am the proud aunt of a beautiful little boy, Elias James Sanderson. Born on December 16th, 2024, to my brother Robert and his wife Abigail, Elias is their miracle baby, one they worked so hard to bring into the world.

Elias has already brought so much love and joy into our family, but his journey has been far from easy. At just a few days old, he began struggling with eating and gaining weight. After visits to his doctor and a series of tests, we learned the heartbreaking news that Elias has two holes in his heart, an atrial septal defect (ASD) and a ventricular septal defect (VSD).

These conditions are causing his little heart to work overtime, leading to over-circulation in his lungs and difficulty breathing. Eating, which should be a simple act, is a huge challenge for Elias because it tires him out so quickly. Despite his struggles, Elias continues to amaze us with his strength, but he needs medical intervention to thrive.

What Lies Ahead

Elias is currently admitted to St. Louis Children’s Hospital, where he is receiving the best care possible. Over the past few days, his condition has become more complex. Last night, he was placed on high-flow oxygen due to difficulty breathing, and doctors discovered he was dehydrated again and had lost more weight. These setbacks are making his journey even harder, but the medical team is now discussing the possibility of moving forward with surgery to repair the holes in his heart.

While this surgery is routine and common, it’s an incredibly difficult road for any family to walk, especially for first-time parents.

How You Can Help

This journey has brought immense emotional and financial challenges to Robert and Abigail. Between medical bills, travel expenses, and time away from work to care for Elias, the costs are quickly adding up. We are starting this fundraiser to help ease the financial burden on this incredible family so they can focus on what truly matters—helping Elias get healthy and strong.

Your donation will go toward:

Medical expenses not covered by insurance

Travel and lodging costs for hospital stays

Everyday living expenses during this difficult time.

Your Support Means Everything

Elias is a fighter, and with your prayers and support, we believe he will overcome these challenges and grow into the amazing little boy he is destined to be. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference. If you are unable to contribute financially, we ask that you keep Elias and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your kindness and generosity. Together, we can help Elias on his journey to a healthy heart.

Elias James Sanderson

Born: 12/16/24 | 6lbs 2oz | 19 inches long

With love and gratitude,

Emjay Sanderson