Meet Landen

LANDEN'S STORY

There is nothing sweeter than the sound of a baby’s first cry as he enters the world and takes his first breath. This is true for every parent, but especially so for those told to expect the sound of silence. But not our son! Born the day after Christmas, hearing Landen cry was the greatest gift.

While still in utero, we learned that our baby boy had CDH. This was a devastating blow, but we quickly channeled the initial shock into determination. Whatever challenges came our way, we’d face them head-on.

Landen James was born full-term in relatively stable condition, just one week prior to the estimated due date. Landen underwent corrective surgery on Day 5, and with the prayers of many and the skilled staff at Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, he pulled through surgery like a champ (despite the hole in his diaphragm being larger than expected)! Following his surgery, a subsequent blood transfusion and with the assistance of an oscillator, he leveled out and was able to begin the process of healing.

With three siblings at home, I couldn’t be at the hospital around the clock. However, thanks to Angel Eye, we could see our sweet baby at any time. By his third week, Landen was off all machines. One glorious step closer to coming home! Finally, on Day 48, he was discharged and headed home where he was greeted by his two sisters, his brother, and loyal dog Kujo. We knew we weren’t entirely out of the woods, but it was wonderful to finally have all four children under one roof.

Homelife consists of daily therapy and regular appointments with his doctor. These routines can be tiring and time-consuming, but we still find time for Landen’s favorite activity, splashing in the wading pool with the big kids. The past eight months have been the most challenging ones of our lives but at the same time filled with joy and countless miracles. We would have been lost without the love and support from our family, friends, the amazing CDH community, and Fore Hadley Foundation! Every day is a victory, not to be taken for granted, we cherish each and every one of them.

About the Fore Hadley Angels in the NICU Fund

Support and proceeds for the Fore Hadley Angels in the NICU Fund will go towards assisting current and future families like Landen’s, by providing financial contributions to assist families with the costs associated with extended, long distance travel and living arrangements. Costs that are often a must to ensure the proper specialty care for CDH babies.