Jamie’s Smiles will be raising funds to help families with children with special needs through the Macomb Infant Preschool Program (MIPP).
This year Jamie's Smiles is adopting one family completely and helping dozens of others throughout the community.
We are adopting Donte Junior, AKA "DJ", (6 months), his brother Carsen (Age 4), his sister Caisyn (Age 2), Mom, and Dad.
Carsen had a delayed delivery and at birth he was sent to Children’s Hospital with low oxygen. He was later diagnosed with hypotonia. According to Healthline, “Hypotonia, or poor muscle tone, is usually detected at birth or during infancy. It’s sometimes called floppy muscle syndrome.”
About 5 months of age Carsen started choking easily and after a short time he had to be intubated. Carsen is completely ventilated and oxygen dependent.
Thankfully, Caisyn was born average and is developing according to average milestones.
Donte Junior, “DJ” was a surprise. He was also diagnosed with hypotonia and he had to be placed on a feeding tube. Late this summer, DJ had labored breathing, was intubated for two weeks, and did poorly when he came off the intubation. As a result, he received a tracheotomy. DJ is not ventilator dependent, except at night, but sometimes requires ventilation assistance during the day.
Mom says, “I am happy to be their parent and to be on this journey with them every day.” She speaks lovingly and knowledgeably about her children and their health concerns.
They really need a hand up! Check out the details under the "More", then "Holiday Giving 2023" pull downs for their whole story and how you can help!.