Thank you for taking the time to read Andrew’s story. Even being here means more to our family than we can put into words. Any support Whether through donations, sharing, or prayers, it means everything to us as we walk this journey with our son.

Andrew was born via emergency C-section at 37 weeks after receiving a score of 4 on his non-stress test. Despite the urgency of his arrival and the challenges he faced at birth, Andrew was absolutely beautiful. Even with low muscle tone, his presence filled the room, and from the very beginning, he showed us just how strong he is. He required immediate resuscitation at birth, turning what should have been a joyful moment into one of fear—but also of fierce love and determination.

Shortly after birth, Andrew was transported by ambulance from the hospital where he was born to Hurley Children’s Hospital. There, he was intubated and fed through a feeding tube. Those early days were some of the hardest of our lives, filled with uncertainty and long nights apart. Yet through it all, Andrew continued to fight. Even as doctors searched for answers, he showed a quiet resilience that carried us through the unknown.

When Andrew’s neurologist felt the newborn screening might provide answers and requested it be rushed, we finally received clarity. Andrew was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 0. While this diagnosis was devastating, it also gave us direction and access to the specialized care he needed. Andrew was transferred to C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital in Ann Arbor, where he is now being seen by some of the best SMA specialists in our state—doctors who see not just his diagnosis, but his strength.

Unfortunately, our journey has continued to bring new challenges. We are currently facing obstacles in securing Risdiplam, a medication that works by splicing the SMN2 gene to increase production of the SMN protein Andrew’s body lacks. Our insurance denied coverage, and while we are actively appealing the decision, if the medication is not fully covered we are facing a $4,000 copay just to access this life-changing treatment. Still, we remain hopeful and determined to do everything possible to give Andrew every chance we can.

Because Andrew requires highly specialized care, we now face increased and ongoing transportation costs traveling to Ann Arbor—expenses we will likely face for the rest of his life. Andrew has also failed extubating twice, meaning he will need a tracheostomy. This next step, while daunting, is about giving him the best possible support to continue fighting. It does come with significant costs, including medical equipment and supplies not fully covered by insurance, converting part of our home into a safe space for his care, and arranging in-home nursing. Though overwhelming, we are committed to creating a home filled with comfort, love, and stability for him.

For those unfamiliar, Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is a rare genetic condition that causes progressive muscle weakness due to the loss of motor neurons in the spinal cord—cells responsible for movement, breathing, and swallowing. SMA Type 0 is the most severe form and begins before birth. Even so, Andrew continues to defy expectations each day through his strength, perseverance, and the love surrounding him.

Despite everything stacked against him, Andrew has shown us what true courage looks like. He fights every single day, and we fight right alongside him. Our family is doing everything in our power to give him the best care, comfort, and quality of life possible.

Thank you again for taking the time to read Andrew’s story. Any donation, share, or prayer helps us continue this fight and means more to our family than words can express. We are endlessly grateful for your kindness and support.