Help Baby Tatum Fight for Healing

On what should have been an ordinary Saturday, Kirsten and Nate rushed their sweet baby boy, Tatum, to the emergency room because he was in severe pain. They were initially told it was constipation, but as the day went on, Tatum’s condition continued to worsen. Trusting a mother’s instinct, they made the decision to take him to East Tennessee Children’s Hospital in Knoxville for further evaluation.

After multiple tests, doctors discovered a 7-centimeter mass in Tatum’s pelvic area pressing against his bladder. Because of the mass, Tatum has been unable to urinate or have a bowel movement on his own and has been enduring an unimaginable amount of pain.

The surgical and radiology teams believe the mass is likely neuroblastoma, a type of childhood cancer. While they remain hopeful, they are waiting for a biopsy and additional testing to determine exactly what the mass is and the best course of treatment.

No parent is ever prepared to hear words like these.

As Kirsten and Nate focus every ounce of their energy on being by Tatum’s side, they are also facing the financial burden that comes with a prolonged hospital stay. Nate does not receive paid leave from work, and while Kirsten has some paid time off available, those benefits will eventually run out. Between lost income, medical expenses, travel to and from Knoxville, meals, and everyday household bills, the financial strain is quickly becoming overwhelming.

If you know this family, you know they would never ask for help unless they truly needed it. They are loving, hardworking parents who are simply trying to be present for their little boy during the most difficult season of their lives.

We are asking for your support in any way you can. Whether you are able to donate or simply share this fundraiser, every act of kindness makes a difference. Most importantly, we ask that you continue praying for Tatum and for healing, comfort, wisdom for his medical team, and that his biopsy brings the best possible news.