Diagnosis: Inguinal Hernia; Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
Age at Diagnosis: 3 months old
Current Age: 2 1/2 years old
Hunter's story, as told by his mother, Crystal:
He was actually treated by CHKD in both December 2016 and January 2017 for separate issues.
Hunter was diagnosed with an inguinal hernia at a little under 3 months old. The doctors wanted to wait for him to reach a certain age as it reduces certain risks so he had the surgery the first week of December. We were a mess. Apparently, this is one of the most common surgeries they perform at the hospital but that doesn't make it any less scary. He came through the surgery and once he got into recovery his amazing doctor let us all go be with him. His doctor was incredible and could tell we were all worried sick. Aside from being extra sleepy that day you never would've known he had been through surgery.
The following month he ended up with Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and spent 5 days at CHKD. As a first time mother, it was by far the scariest thing I had ever seen. He was struggling to breathe and there is nothing pleasant about watching them use suction to help your infant breathe as he screams. The doctors were awesome but the nurses were amazing. They helped calm our fears and make sure he was comfortable as he fought the virus. We had been at Beach General for 3 hours the night before and they just aren't equipped to care for an infant of his age.
The above link will take you to our CrowdRise site. To donate in honor of Hunter, please write Hunter Ford or Mile 16 in the comments section of your donation.