Born at just 24.5 weeks gestation, Connor weighed 1 pound, 13 ounces and was in need of specialized care to survive. He had developed bleeding in the brain as a result of extreme prematurity and received care at Valley Children’s where leading specialists and his fighting spirit saved his life.
"There was a moment when Connor was first born that we weren't sure if he was going to make it because he was so premature," said Susan, Connor’s grandma. "His outcome was uncertain, but the NICU team did an outstanding job caring for Connor.”
Connor was diagnosed with cerebral palsy meaning that he would have difficulty with movement and maintaining balance due to muscle weakness. He has had several surgeries including a shunt placement and replacement, as well as spinal surgery to improve his ability to walk.
Today, Connor is 11-years-old and thriving! He is able to walk with the use of a walker and can fly down the street on his adaptive tricycle. Connor enjoys playing with his friends at school, gaming at home and participating in kayaking and baseball through Valley Children’s Adaptive Sports program.
"Connor had excellent care from the time he was admitted to the NICU to today,” added Susan. “We are grateful for the doctors and care teams at Valley Children’s who have been wonderful to Connor and our family.”
