This story is about my son, Luke, and his beautiful bride, Brenda (m. 7/23/23) -- but primarily featuring my third grandson, Xander.

Long before they knew each other, Luke and Brenda have dreamed of starting a family. Their prayers have been answered with the soon arrival of their first child, Xander. Early in the pregnancy, Xander was diagnosed with Spina Bifida Myeloschisis, affecting his spinal cord and brain; and Tetralogy of Fallot, a condition impacting his heart. Despite these challenges, Xander's development has surpassed expectations, and his heartbeat remains strong. We are all deeply grateful for every bit of good news and continue to pray, trust and hope that God continues to heal Xander.

We believe God hasn't finished his knitting and weaving yet for Xander. Since the first diagnosis, which was incredibly hopeless according to the doctors, God has given Xander three of his missing vertebrae. Xander does not have a chromosomal defect, as doctors originally suggested. His heartbeat remains strong and steady, his legs kick Brenda with strength, and he does not have clubbed feet as is often the case. His development is beyond expectation and we are thankful for every bit of good news.

Xander is scheduled to be delivered at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia on September 8, 2025. Brenda will need to temporarily relocate to Philadelphia two weeks before his birth and remain there until Xander recovers from his surgeries. Within 72 hours of birth, Xander will undergo spinal surgery, followed by a shunt placement in his skull if excess fluid remains. If his heart still needs intervention, he will have heart surgery in the coming months to close a hole between the heart chambers. Luke will continue working to support the family, visiting Philadelphia as much as possible, while I will stay with Brenda during the week.

All of the special testing, the C-section, consulting specialists, surgeries, travel, and temporary housing have added a significant financial burden to Luke and Brenda. They had to change insurance companies early on and have already used much of their newlywed savings to cover these expenses. Out-of-pocket costs have already been substantial, with more expected as Xander continues his journey. All funds raised will help cover medical expenses, travel, temporary housing, and other costs associated with Xander's surgeries and recovery past and future. Every contribution will help ease the financial burden and allow Luke and Brenda to focus on supporting Xander through his treatments and healing. Thank you for standing with this young family as they navigate this journey with courage and hope.