On November 18th, 2025, what was supposed to be a routine appointment for Tori quickly turned into the start of labor. She and her fiancé, Zach, had been eagerly waiting to meet their baby boy, and they headed straight to the hospital, believing this would be the day their family finally became three. After many hours of labor, Sebastian’s heart rate began to drop, and doctors made the urgent decision to perform an emergency c-section.

Sebastian Robert Buckler arrived on November 19th weighing 6 lbs 12 oz, announcing himself with strong cries. For a brief moment, Tori saw her son lifted above the curtain, ten seconds that filled her heart completely.

Those ten seconds were followed by news no parent expects. Sebastian was unexpectedly diagnosed with spina bifida and needed immediate specialized care. He was rushed from the operating room while Zach followed, leaving Tori recovering from surgery without her partner or her newborn beside her.

Within moments, a helicopter team prepared to transport Sebastian to Orlando for emergency surgery. Tori then spent the next two days recovering in one hospital while Zach and Sebastian were in another. It was an emotional and physical challenge. When she was finally able to see Sebastian again, she was met with a wave of love and the heavy guilt that so many NICU parents know far too well: the feeling of not being able to comfort or hold your child when they need you most. But Sebastian has proven to be incredibly strong. He’s making steady progress and meeting every goal set by his NICU team.

Tori is focusing on her own healing and staying positive as they navigate this unexpected path. Through it all, their family, friends, and community have shown tremendous support and love, reminding them that they are not facing this journey alone.

Tori and Zach are deeply grateful for every message, prayer, and gesture of kindness. They are so proud of their little fighter and feel truly blessed to call him theirs.

This journey has come with significant, unexpected expenses, including travel back and forth to the NICU, missed work, medical costs, and the long-term care Sebastian will need. Tori and Zach are doing everything they can to stay strong for their son, but they could greatly use support to stay afloat during this time and focus on what matters most: being with Sebastian as he heals and grows.

Any amount helps, and every share means the world to them. Thank you for lifting up this family during one of the hardest and most important moments of their lives.