Our family is asking for help for our nephew Balian “Bails,” who has been in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit at the Calgary Children’s Hospital since November 11. That night he was airlifted by STARS from Raymond, and doctors later confirmed he was in heart failure. He has remained in the PICU ever since. As of today he is stable; however, his heart is still considered in severe failure, and there is no timeline for when he will be strong enough to leave the ICU.

If his heart does not begin to recover, he will need to be transferred to Edmonton for surgery to receive a Ventricular Assist Device, which would then lead to a full heart transplant. His medical team is watching him closely and adjusting his care based on how his heart responds each day.

Bails’ dad has been in Calgary with him every day, working remotely from the hospital so he can stay beside him through every test, conversation, and moment of uncertainty. His employer has shown real understanding and flexibility by allowing him to work this way, which has made it possible for him to be with Bails during the hardest moments of their lives. That support has meant more to the family than they can express. Bails’ mom has remained in Raymond caring for their 3 other boys. She travels to Calgary 1 or 2 times each week to spend time with Bails, then returns home to support the rest of the family.

The sudden shift to living between two cities has created a financial strain no one expected. Travel, meals, and the basic costs of being away from home for weeks have added up quickly. The family is doing everything they can, but the expenses continue to grow as Bails’ ICU stay remains open ended.

Bails’ birthday is on December 7, and with Christmas approaching, our hope is to ease some of the pressure so his parents can focus their energy on what matters most right now. They are carrying so much, and any support during this time would make a meaningful difference for them.

Your help, in any amount, will go directly toward supporting the family with essential costs while they continue to navigate this incredibly difficult journey. Your generosity will give them room to breathe and allow them to stay fully present for Bails and their boys at home.

If there are any funds left unused after his care, the family plans to donate them back to the Ronald McDonald House in gratitude for the support they have received. Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and prayers.

Thank you for reading Bails’ story and for supporting this family from the bottom of your heart.