Leo was born August 10, 2021. At just 7 lb 4 oz, he was a bit small for a full term boy, but he seemed otherwise healthy. However, our world was flipped upside down only hours after his birth as he was rushed to the NICU.

It was discovered that Leo had a malformation in his digestive system, so at 2 days old he underwent surgery and had a colostomy placed. His condition still requires at least 2 more surgeries in the future at a speciality center in Washington, D.C. Unfortunately before that can take place, a different problem must be resolved.

Leo began eating after his first surgery, but always struggled with coughing and getting too tired to eat very much. After consulting speech therapy, his pediatrician, and his surgeon, we finally ended up in the emergency room to be labeled “failure to thrive” as we discovered he has not grown since birth because he can’t get the proper nutrition. This is because he has a opening in his esophagus that is allowing food to enter his airway. He is aspirating, so he can no longer eat by mouth. He has a tube in his nose that goes down to his stomach. This is how he is able to survive without eating. But the feeding tube is not a permanent solution. Little Leo must undergo yet another surgery.

The pediatric ENT surgeon in Syracuse was unable to perform the repair and has referred Leo to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital as his only hope to have one of the world’s top pediatric ENT surgeons close this life threatening opening to his airway.

Leo’s Mom and I are both working and have insurance coverage for him, but the deductibles and copays from his birth, the NICU stay, the surgery, and all the specialty follow ups alone have wiped out all savings. The struggle right now is being able to fund the trip to Cincinnati. This includes gas for the 16 hour round trip, hotel costs for the entirety of his surgery and recovery, and food and other basic provisions while we are so far from home.

While none of you have had the joy of meeting Leo because he has only been on this earth for a month, I can tell you that he is a fighter and he deserves the chance to live a happy, healthy life. It is hard to ask for help, but there is no pride when it comes to saving this perfect little boy.

If you find it in yourself to help fund this trip to Cincinnati, Leo’s Mom and I thank you in advance. Every dollar is a little bit closer to the goal so no amount is too small. And if you cannot donate, please continue to pray.