Elaine Dardar and her newborn son, Karter, are facing an incredibly difficult journey. Karter was born at just 26 weeks and 5 days, weighing only 2 lbs 1.5 oz, making him a micro preemie fighting for his life in the NICU at Manning Family Children’s Hospital in New Orleans. Elaine had to undergo an emergency C-section due to placenta previa, and the delivery was especially complicated. The doctors had to make a second, vertical incision because of Karter’s position, adding to Elaine’s recovery challenges. Just days after his birth, Karter experienced a terrifying setback—his lungs partially collapsed, his blood pressure dropped, and he needed CPR and a special ventilator to keep him alive. He’s also facing serious complications, including a brain bleed and kidney issues, but he is stable for now and showing signs of improvement.

This past year has been especially hard for Elaine. She suffered a miscarriage with her first child, Kaison, and now she’s navigating the emotional and physical toll of Karter’s premature birth and critical condition. Elaine lives over an hour away from the hospital, and the daily travel is exhausting and difficult as she tries to heal from surgery. The family has applied for a room at the Ronald McDonald House, but there are no openings right now. Being close to Karter is so important for both his recovery and Elaine’s well-being, but the costs of lodging, transportation, and meals are adding up quickly.

As Elaine’s mother and Karter’s nana, I am doing everything I can to support them, but I don’t have the extra resources to cover these unexpected expenses. Any help would mean so much to our family. Your support will help Elaine stay close to Karter during this critical time, cover travel and meal costs, and give them the strength to keep fighting. Thank you for being part of their journey and for helping us stay together when it matters most.