Hi, I am Eileen, I have known Estela for about 25 years. Estela and Michael are wonderful people, great hearts and I am here to help my friend, my family, here is **Finley’s Journey**

Finley was born four months early on *Star Wars Day*, May 4th, 2025, May the Force be with him. He weighed just 1 lb. 11 oz. Because of his premature birth, Finley’s organs, including his lungs, liver, kidneys, and colon, have not fully developed. His eyes were initially fused shut, but now they are open.

Finley requires a central line tube to receive nutrients, water, and medication, and he is currently on a ventilator due to his underdeveloped lungs. He also underwent emergency surgery for a perforated bowel to aid his digestive system.

At this time, Finley cannot take his mother’s milk, but we hope he will be able to soon. He is truly a miracle, and his name, *Finley*, is of Irish origin, meaning **“warrior.”**

Currently, Finley is receiving care at Lurie Children’s Hospital in downtown Chicago, far from his future home. It has been an adjustment for his family as they work to ensure his well-being. Michael travels several times a week to visit Finley and bring supplies for Estela, who is staying at the Ronald McDonald House. Michael’s round trip takes nearly five hours.

Estela will be staying with baby Finley until he can come home. It is very important she is there with him, especially at as many assessments as she can which there a total of 8 a day. Her being by his side and showing continuous love will help him be strong.

Finley’s development and health depends greatly on Estela’s daily interactions with him. She provides a constant source of comfort through her touch, scent, and voice. Although Finley’s NICU care team provides him with the best possible care, the teams rotate frequently.

We need your prayers, goodwill, and donations to help bring Finley home where he belongs. Your support means everything to us. Thank you so much.

We will be providing updates on Baby Finley's progress and his journey on getting home as he will be in the hospital until, at the very least, his due date August 26th. Please share this Go Fund me with your loved ones, friends, community, anything helps even a prayer!

****We understand that GoFundMe donations may not be the right option for everyone, but every contribution makes a meaningful difference for Baby Finley and his family. If you’d prefer to donate by check, please feel free to reach out to me or any of Estela’s relatives for the address. You can also use the QR code below for an alternative way to give. Your support isn’t just generosity it’s a lifeline, and we are deeply grateful for any kindness you share. If you wish to use the QR code open the QR code in your bank's app. Thank you so much.****