As many of you know, my sweet little niece, Cleo Mae, is currently in the NICU bravely fighting through some medical challenges with so much strength and sweetness.

While my sister and her family are incredibly grateful for the care she is receiving, they are now facing unexpected financial obstacles that are delaying the moment they’ve been praying for most, bringing their precious girl home.

Cleo has been making wonderful progress, so much so that she has been approved for the NG feeding tube program. This means Ana Denae and James can be trained to care for her at home and finally bring her out of the NICU.

However, due to insurance delays, Cleo cannot be discharged until Medicaid approval is complete, which is a process that could take 4-6 weeks. Because her condition is no longer considered emergent, this approval cannot be expedited. Unless the family can cover the cost of care and required medical supplies out of pocket for the next 30 days, Cleo will have to remain in the NICU longer than medically necessary. As you can imagine, the thought of this is absolutely devastating to them, they are SO ready to bring her home!

To move forward with the program, they need to pay $3,400 upfront. Once this is covered, they can begin training and take the steps needed to bring Cleo home. Family has already paid out of pocket for expensive essential equipment, but additional costs continue to arise, including NG tube supplies, feeding pump supplies, and required weekly home health visits.

At the same time, this season has brought significant financial strain. Ana Denae has been unable to work while caring for Cleo, and the family is also carrying the weight of maintaining two homes while preparing one to sell. Basic bills and everyday necessities are becoming incredibly overwhelming.

More than anything, Ana Denae and James just wants their baby girl home.

If you feel led to give, any amount will go directly toward Cleo’s medical needs, easing financial pressure, and helping make it possible for her to be discharged as soon as possible.

If you’re unable to give, your prayers for continued strength and for provision during this time mean more than words can express. We strongly believe in the power of prayer!

Thank you all so much for loving and supporting their family during such a difficult and emotional season. We believe God has a beautiful plan for Cleo’s life, and we are trusting Him to make a way, even through the generosity and kindness of others!