It’s time to help Angel and his parents. Here’s how: First, like their Facebook Page. Second, book a mini-session with me or Jessica Hekman Photography on Saturday morning, March 24. Third, if you’re so inclined make a donation through PayPal. Here’s their story.
Angel was born prematurely weighing 1lb 7oz. Most of his small intestines were removed in the first weeks of life creating the need for an alternate form of IV nutrition called TPN. Angel was adopted by his parents when he was 3 years old. In July of 2008 at 8 years old he underwent a liver, small intestine and pancreas transplant as a result of liver failure from TPN. In October of 2009 his transplanted small intestine went into rejection and was removed 2 months later – requiring him to be on TPN again.
In the last 2 years, Angel has had some very good days, weeks, and months. But he has also seen days and months filled with pain and suffering.
At this time Angel is dealing with various complications from his first transplant as well as damage to the transplanted liver as a result of TPN. He has severe portal hypertension (blood pressure in/around the liver) that is requiring dilation of the vessels around the liver, painful ulcerative colitis of the large intestine resulting in loss of blood and requiring blood transfusions, a damaged heart, and failing kidneys.
February 4th, 2012, Angel went into full cardiac arrest and required CPR at our home. He had a virus and a cough and his immune compromised body could not handle it and went into septic shock. He was on the high frequency oscillating ventilator for a few days and in very critical condition. Within a few days he was moved to the “conventional” vent and extubated a few days later. He came through with what seems to be 100% mental status and is recovering but the crisis put his liver into end stage failure. He is listed with the highest possible score for transplant at this time. He will need the transplant in the next few months to survive.
Angel is a fighter. He has a lust for life and wakes each day with purpose and fervor. He is a kindhearted and fun little boy who is always happy. He is an imaginative boy who loves Star Wars (Clone Wars), video games, action figures, Praise/Worship music, and comedy. He loves to laugh and often uses laughter to relieve stressful situations.
Such a cool event! So sad we couldn’t make it.