Payton “PayPay” is the seventh and youngest member of the Browning family, and he truly completed their family in the most special way. His arrival was anything but easy—Ashley, his mom, went to the hospital at 33 weeks thinking her water had broken, only to discover she was bleeding. When the doctor considered sending her home, Ashley insisted on staying, and just minutes later, Payton’s heart stopped. Ashley was rushed into an emergency cesarean section, and when she woke up, she heard the words every parent hopes for: “he’s alive.” Payton spent time in the NICU before finally joining his family at home on July 4, 2023.

Even after coming home, Payton’s health challenges continued. Ashley noticed his oxygen levels would drop dangerously low while he slept, prompting more tests and eventually a referral to a Pediatric Pulmonologist. Payton was put on oxygen for sleep, naps, and travel, and as he grew, it became clear he needed it most during illnesses—which, heartbreakingly, seemed to come one after another. Just as he would recover from one sickness, another would begin, making it hard for Ashley to know when one ended and the next started.

Recently, Payton tested positive for RSV and was admitted to the hospital. Despite the doctors’ best efforts, his condition has not improved, and they are now considering transferring him to a facility with a Pediatric Pulmonologist. With Ashley and her husband unable to work while caring for Payton and their six other children, the family is facing mounting medical bills, including a new year deductible, travel expenses, and daily living costs. Any financial help will go directly to supporting this incredible little boy and his loving family as they navigate this difficult journey. Your thoughts, prayers, and support mean the world to them right now.