Our Sweet Soren was diagnosed with bilateral Grade 5 VUR (Vesicoureteral Reflux), severe) and bilateral UTD P3 (Urinary Tract Dilation, severe) on March 31, 2026 at 7 days old following surgical resection of the PUV (posterior ureteral valve) and cystoscopy.

Soren was born on March 23rd weighing 7 # 9 ounces. After a grueling 8 weeks, this came as a huge relief following Soren's diagnosis around 32 weeks' gestation. We were told he had a blockage in his lower urinary tract that would require intervention (this range is wide and it varied anywhere between medications to surgery, and so on). We were told Soren's condition would not resolve on its own, as would some of the lower grade diagnosis, and that it would likely take several days to weeks following his birth to better understand his condition and what interventions and treatments would be necessary from there.

Soren remains at American Family Children's Hospital as they are monitoring his kidney and bladder function. We are hopeful he will be heading home soon, but managing a severe kidney diagnosis in a newborn is extremely challenging and will require close follow-up in Madison with his amazing Pediatric Nephrology and Urology care teams, as well as his local healthcare team.

Soren's parents are a sweet, loving, hardworking couple who never expected to begin their parenting journey this way. Their focus is where it should be right now: on their baby’s health, healing, and future.

Any support—whether through donations, prayers, or sharing their story—would mean the world to Maia and Dawson. Your kindness can help ease the burden of daily expenses so they can continue to be present every moment for their child during this time.

** Special thanks to Meriter Hospital, UW American Family Children's Hospital, and the Ronald McDonald House of Madison who have provided Soren and his parents with such amazing support and care for them all throughout this time. Without access to this attentive care, support, housing, and amenities provided this could have been a very different situation for this sweet family. Additional gratitude goes to Vernon Health LaFarge Clinic and Viroqua Clinic staff. Special thanks to Dr Devitt, Dr Taylor, and Dr Perttu.

With much love and gratitude,

The Family of Soren Elton