Ethan's Story

Images Captured by Brooks Photographic

Ethan is a Tiny Light who loves trivia; did you know there are six different types of bacteria living under your arm?  Ethan knows!  He also loves James Bond, Tae Kwon Do, and collecting things – he will collect almost anything.  Ethan’s mom loves to hear him sing, and says that it does not matter if he is in tune or keeping time; he has a way of making it sound perfect. 

Ethan’s diagnoses include ADHD, Non-verbal Learning Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and Borderline Cognitive Functioning.  Although it seems a lot to deal with, Ethan’s parents were actually relieved to finally get the diagnoses.  Having something concrete to go on not only gave them comfort that they were not “crazy” for thinking something was wrong but also a jumping off point for dealing with all the challenges that Ethan faces. 

While he faces many challenges, Ethan also has many strengths.  He is kind and generous.  He sees the world with a child’s sense of innocence.  He is unbiased and honest.  He loves with his whole being, holding nothing back, and he has a quiet strength and resilience that amazes people around him.

Like most parents, Ethan’s parents hope that he will grow up happy and healthy.  While things seem difficult sometimes, they have faith that they will be able to get through it all.  They want him to find joy in simple things and know the unconditional love of family.  Ethan makes the world a better place and his family count themselves lucky to be a part of his world. 

Story by Shauna Salmon

Kamryn's Story

Images Captured By D4 Photography

This sweet Tiny Light is Kamryn.  She is an inspiration to so many people around her, both those who know her and those who do not, because of her strong spirit and determination to not let anything stop her from doing the things she wants to do.

Kamryn was originally hospitalized for RSV and acute bronchiolitis.  However, during the course of her illness, she contracted Group A Strep and Bacterial Pneumonia.  She was flown to another hospital and she was placed on life support because she was in Septic Shock.  The wait to find out if she would live was agonizing for her parents.  When she finally stabilized, Kamryn showed a zest for life and a happiness that has been amazing!

After her battle with severe infections, Kamryn does not look the same as other children.  She has a total of two and a half fingers.  She has lost part of both her legs including a significant amount on her right side.  However, these things do not get Kamryn down. She can pick up things, hold her own bottle, and even crawl around.  She loves to dance, play with dolls, and keep up with her brothers.

Kamryn’s parents feel that it is important to stay positive and keep looking forward rather than spending time wallowing in what might have been.  Their goals are to encourage Kamryn in everything she desires as she grows.  They want her to do all the things that other kids do.  They want her to continue to be the strong, inspiring, and beautiful light that she already is in this world as she conquers all of the challenges that come her way!

Story by Shauna Salmon

Charlie's Story

Images Captured by O La La Photography

Tiny Light Charlie always has a smile on his face. He loves to play with his big brother and read stories with Mom and Dad. Charlie loves his toy kitchen and also toys that make music. 

Charlie has a very rare and complex condition known as Tetrology of Fallot. This condition is caused by four heart defects that do not allow his blood to carry a normal amount of oxygen. This causes the body to become cyanotic or “blue” because of the poorly oxygenated blood that flows through his veins. Charlie’s parents found out about this condition in the 19th week of the pregnancy. His parents were shocked by the diagnosis but decided to do everything they could for Charlie even before he was born. Unfortunately, Charlie was not able to be carried to full term and was born five weeks early.  It was at that point the severity of his condition became known. 

When Charlie was just over a month old, he had to have open heart surgery to repair his heart. He weighed less than six pounds at that time, and his heart was the size of a California strawberry. After the surgery, Charlie’s heart rate skyrocketed, and he had to recover with his chest open while on a cooling bed for several days. However, the support from the health care team, as well as family and friends, helped Charlie's family through those difficult days. 

Charlie’s heart condition will continue to be monitored, and he may need further surgeries as he gets older. His parents hope that he will be stronger every day, that he will be able to achieve every goal he sets for himself, and that he will see every dream he dreams come true. 

Story by Shauna Salmon