Charles and Erin are two of the strongest people I know. Their journey over the past few weeks has been filled with challenges that most of us can hardly imagine. Before Olive was born, Charles and Erin learned that their daughter would face serious heart problems. In preparation, they stayed at the Ronald McDonald House in Aurora, Colorado, away from home and work, to be close to the care Olive would need.

On December 12th, Erin gave birth to Olive. Just days after her arrival, Olive underwent open-heart surgery for severe heart defects—Severe Coarctation of the Aorta, Hypoplasia of the Aortic Arch, and a Ventricular Septal Defect—at Children’s Hospital in Aurora, Colorado. The days that followed were filled with uncertainty and hope as Olive began her recovery. Throughout this time, Charles and Erin have shown incredible resilience and love for their daughter. Charles is a business owner and has not been able to take on work during this time, putting additional financial strain on their family. They put everything on hold to be by Olive’s side, spending countless hours in the hospital and away from the comfort of their home and the security of their jobs.

The financial strain of living away from home, combined with the emotional toll of Olive’s surgery, has been immense. Thankfully, Charles, Erin, and Olive made it home for Christmas, but the journey is far from over. As they look ahead to the new year, they are facing ongoing expenses and challenges. Donations to this fundraiser will help cover their living expenses, lost funds from work, medical supplies and provide some relief as they focus on Olive’s continued recovery. Any support you can offer will mean the world to this family as they navigate this difficult time together.

Note from Charles and Erin: Thank you for the love, prayers, and support everyone has shown our family.

The kindness we've received during this time has meant more than we can express and we appreciate so many of you reaching out to us during this time.