In the above photo from left to right: Luke, Dean, Grant and Gabe.

March 23, 2005

It has been almost five months since we last checked in on the Merklinger family. I have asked the family if they could share updates on Grant.

Grant is doing well. He has monthly cardiac visits and he is gaining weight slowly. His recent MRI shows some suspicious spots in his brain but they are not overly concerned at this time. They said it can happen to children with traumatic births or trauma to the body as an infant.

He still has some issues with eating. At times he aspirates and chokes. His parents are learning each day how to address issues as they arise. We all praise God for the miracle of Baby Grant and the community which surrounds this family with love and support.

To learn more about Grant’s journey, read the information below.

Hello Friends,

In the above photo is a family that is very dear and an important part of our dance family. You are looking at the Thomas family and the Merklinger family. Miss Denise teaches piano at the studio and plays accompaniment for the Albion Central School Choir. Miss Lauren and Miss Jordan are dance teachers at the studio. Mr. Todd Thomas is always at our events lending a hand. The Merklinger family is left to introduce; Luke, Gabrielle, (Thomas), and their son, Dean.

Shortly after this photo, Luke and Gabrielle learned they were expecting another baby. They were originally given a November 8th due date and quickly named their new baby boy, Grant.

In Gabe’s 2nd trimester, doctors could see something was not right with Baby Grant’s heart. It wasn’t until August 23rd, in the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, (CHOP), that the couple learned of the complications.

The Merklinger family has been faced with an extremely heartbreaking diagnosis for their tiniest boy. Baby Grant has a very serious cardiac defect called Double Outlet Right Ventricle with malposed great arteries as well as a hypoplastic aorta. This means that he will need multiple surgeries to not only ensure survival but to improve his overall quality of life.

To receive the level of care needed to support this, they will be traveling to Philadelphia and residing temporarily. Luke and Gabrielle are two of the most amazing people we have had the honor of knowing. This baby needs them and was given to them for a reason. They will surround this baby with love and patience, just like they do with Dean. The Merklinger family is putting all of their trust in the Lord, but we as their extended family/friends need to come together in addition.

Aubrie Leach is the organizer of the Gofundme Campaign. Her goal is to raise funds to help alleviate the burden of travel expenses, living accommodations, and any other expenses that may come up while going through this difficult time in their lives.

Click the button below to make donations to the Gofundme page.