Cairo is a true gift from God that exceeds what his parents Sable and Brandon could of ever asked for. He is Beautiful, full of happiness and a radiant bright light in this sometimes dark-cruel world. Google Cairo and you’ll find that that name means “Victorious One.” It’s very fitting because he has been fighting and winning battles ever since he was in the womb.

Cairo was born prematurely at exactly 31 weeks by emergency cesarean section. He was just 2lbs 3.8oz, but he entered the world with bright open eyes and a faint cry. He was rushed to the NICU where he would spend the first 45 days of life. On January 10th, Cairo became a NICU graduate and began life at home. The very next day Cairo went to his first pediatric appointment and it was discovered that he had both an umbilical and inguinal hernia (common amongst preemie males) that would need to be repaired. Cairo was scheduled for surgery for March, but due to COVID it was delayed until May.

On May 11th Cairo underwent surgery to have his hernias repaired. What appeared to initially be a successful surgery revealed that he may have an underlying health issue. After being discharged and arriving home, we notice that Cairo was bleeding at the site of his incision. We immediately went to the ER and it was later discovered that Cairo had a Vitamin K deficiency. After being monitored and treated for a couple of days we were excited for Cairo to come home again and truly begin life as a fully healthy and happy baby. Unfortunately, about a week or so later we noticed that the whites of Cairo’s eyes began to turn yellow. Cairo saw several specialists, had countless blood tests as well as a genetics test. The blood test revealed that his liver enzymes were abnormal, but the genetics test came back normal. Baffled by the results a second opinion was sought after. This time an ultrasound showed that Cairo had Cirrhosis of the liver and he would need a transplant. Cairo immediately began his Transplant Evaluation and has had numerous tests and procedures to prepare him for his surgery.

Throughout the entire journey Cairo has stayed happy, joyful, and has always kept that contagious smile. He really enjoys playing with his toys, watching ‘The Puppy Dog Pals’, scooting/dancing to music, taking naps in the car, giving his Mommy the wettest of kisses, and pulling on his Daddy’s beard.

The liver transplant process includes Cairo receiving a 17.3% portion of his father’s liver which will then grow with Cairo as he grows. Following the transplantation his body will adjust to his “new liver”. Medications will be needed to maintain his health with his highly compromised immune system due to immunosuppressants. Therefore, Cairo will be highly susceptible to common colds, seasonal viruses, the flu etc. Lastly, Cairo will take some form of medication for the entirety of his life but is expected to live a happy full life. He is VICTORIOUS !

Since this surgery carries with it significant expenses – not only for the procedure, but for a lifetime after – we have partnered with the Children’s Organ Transplant Association (COTA) for assistance. Our family appreciates any donations you can offer to COTA in honor of Cairo. No amount is too small – every penny counts.

The LORD brought us to, and the LORD will take us through. For I hold your right hand, I the LORD God. And I say to you, “Don’t be afraid. I am here to help you.” (Isaiah 41:13)

The Children’s Organ Transplant Association (COTA) helps children and young adults who need a life-saving transplant by providing fundraising assistance and family support. COTA is the nation’s only fundraising organization solely dedicated to raising life-saving dollars in honor of transplant-needy children and young adults. 100% of each contribution made to COTA in honor of our patients helps meet transplant-related expenses. COTA’s services are free to our families, and gifts to COTA are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.