Oliver’s Story

Site created on August 2, 2018

Oliver Sterling Armendariz was born on July 30th, 2018. He arrived early, at 33 weeks and 6 days, weighing 4 pounds. Within just a few hours after delivery he was diagnosed with "VACTERL Syndrome", VACTERL orrcurs in 1/10,000 births, and while it is gene-based, it is random and no known cause exists. Oli endured his first surgery in his first 24 hours of life, and has a handful of medical needs that will change daily. He is currently in the NICU and will likely be there for several months.

Oliver had surgery on July 31st to repair his esophageal atresia. The surgeon was able to repair a tracheoesophageal fistula (where the esophagus is connected to the trachea). At a later date another surgery will be performed to attach the esophagus to the stomach, Oliver currently has a feeding tube and a colostomy. He will begin feedings on August, 4th. Gracie has been pumping and freezing her milk, and they can't wait to feed their baby. 

In addition to the esophageal atresia, Oliver also has an anal atresia (absent anus). He will likely have two surgeries to attend to this issue once he weighs around fifteen pounds. 

Oliver's extended stay in the NICU and multiple operations will be expensive; we are still not sure how much will be covered by insurance. The procedure for the anal atresia may require travel to another city/state to find the best option for Oliver's case. 

Any donation is a blessing to us, and we thank you for your gift.  

We are in love with this precious baby boy, and this little "fruitful peacemaker" is changing lives already!

Lucas, Gracie, Oliver, and Family

Newest Update

More About VACTERL

Journal entry by Kristin Hurd —

For those wondering what VACTERL is and how it affects our sweet boy:
VACTERL stands for vertebral defects, anal atresia, cardiac defects, tracheo-esophageal fistula, renal anomalies, and limb abnormalities. Traditionally, neonatologists have considered it a syndrome, though you will now hear some call it an association. Neither is incorrect. Oliver has the A, T, E, and R that we know of at this moment. The V often presents itself later as scoliosis. In that case, he will more accurately be diagnosed with VATER. Typically, 3 of the acronym letters must be present for this diagnosis.

Oliver will undergo genetic testing to see if this syndrome is part of any other disorder which is sometimes the case. While the actual presence of the syndrome is random and no specific cause exists, a pattern does actually exists for the patients. Almost all babies present with the A, T, & E together. We are thankful that Oliver so far has only presented with 4 of the anomalies. It could be much, much worse.

It's safe to say that all of us will spend the next weeks and months learning everything we can about this rare condition and we will happily share with you. Knowledge is essential to being the best advocates for Oliver as well as for his parents. Oliver will likely go on to live a relatively normal childhood and adult life with minimal lasting affects. Thank you for your continued support and keep those prayers coming!

Read More of the journal titled "More About VACTERL"
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