Kaiden Rhett Gallagher, born 6 weeks early, on July 10, 2024, has been the biggest blessing to his parents, Kellen and Sierra. As unexpected as his early delivery was, the diagnosis he received at 8 days old was even more heart wrenching. Kaiden was diagnosed with Congenital Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1, a diagnosis that the doctor said is 'life altering'.

 

Throughout Kaiden's first few weeks of life, he has battled many of the challenges that come with myotonic dystrophy, a neuro-muscular disorder. This affects all his muscles in his body so he has been needing constant respiratory support through a CPAP mask, feedings through an OG tube, and constant airway management.  On top of these challenges, he has also overcome 2 severe infections, 3 blood transfusions, a spinal tap, multiple PICC attempts, dozens of X-rays and Echos, 24 hour brain scan, and nebulizer breathing treatments.  Through all of this, Kaiden has been the strongest warrior and constant light for all his loved ones. Such a tiny human has made such a giant influence on deepening his entire family's faith and trust in God's plan.

 

Upon transferring from Sharp Mary Birch NICU to the Rady Children's Hospital NICU, Kaiden was chosen to join the NICU Care Coordination program.  This care coordination program within the NICU is completely dependent on philanthropy. Every dollar helps support and coordinate care for families with babies whom have a complex diagnosis and will need lifelong medical support. We graciously ask for those who feel called to give, to donate here to further support NICU Care Coordination at Rady Children's. Your donation will allow Rady Children's to continue to provide incredible support to babies and families in the NICU, as well as expand their staffing to support more families. 

 

100% of donations support the Kaiden Gallagher Warrior Endowment benefiting NICU Care Coordination at Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego.