Meet Baby Jack

Shaken Baby Syndrome Survivior

 

Jackson (“Jack”) was born on August 17th, 2014 in Minnesota, a happy, healthy and smiling Baby Boy.On December 13th, 2014 our family was faced with one of the hardest days of our lives. At 4 months old, my nephew Jack, was brought in to be seen by a Pediatrician in a small rural hospital. He had been very tired, had a lack of appetite and didn’t seem himself. Before we knew it he was airlifted to Children’s Hospital in Minneapolis, MN. Jack was immediately admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. As a result of Jackson’s traumatic brain injury, he now suffers severe brain damage. His doctors were unsure if he would make it through the night. It was incredibly hard seeing Baby Jack intubated, with a central venous access device placed, and electrodes on his head and chest. However, we remained by his side, holding his hands praying, smothering him with kisses, and telling him how much we loved him. Jackson fought for his life that night. After he pulled through, we all knew we had a little warrior with us. This is how  Shaken Baby Syndrome will forever impact not only the quality of life for baby Jack, but our family’s life as well. To this day, Jack has been in and out of the Children’s Hospital due to complications from this traumatic event. Due to the severe brain damage that occurred, it is unknown what his future will be. Currently, Jackson is on a large array of medications due to his frequent seizures and chronic pain. He receives home health care and has medical appointments that range up to 5 days a week. One can see how expensive medical bills for a victim of SBS can accumulate which is why I want to help him and other families affected by SBS.