Imagine being pregnant with a healthy growing baby when you suddenly go into labor at only 6 months; this is what Sheari experienced last year when she unexpectedly went into early labor with her youngest son, Tate. Despite medical interventions, Tate came into this world months early, making him a medically fragile baby. The first four months of Tate's life were spent in the NICU, he was hooked up to machines around the clock to ensure that he was able to continue progressing in his growth, giving him the fighting chance that he needed. With two other children at home to take care of and a child in the NICU, Sheari's time was fully consumed with making sure that her children were properly taken care of, leaving no time to finish preparing for Tate's eventual journey home.

After spending over 90 days in the NICU, Tate's health stabilized, so he was given the green light to move home to be with his family. Panic set-in as Sheari began to think of everything that she would need to purchase to ensure that Tate's welcoming home was a smooth and safe one. Through LEAP transition services Sheari was able to help ensure that Tate's transition suited his medical needs, while also helping to purchase the necessary newborn items that Sheari never had time to purchase before Tate's early arrival. Due to Tate's respiratory problems from being born prematurely, LEAP secured a device for Tate to wear that would monitor his breathing while he slept, giving Sheari some comfort in knowing that he would be monitored while she too slept.

This past July, Tate turned one year old and is thriving! Although he was born extremely premature, Tate is continuing to reach his milestones and getting stronger each day. Because of our wonderful supporters, LEAP was able to ensure that Tate was given the fighting chance that he deserved. When asked what working with LEAP meant to Sheari and her family, she said, "Working with LEAP was a very positive experience! When we needed them the most, they were there to help. And Brenda was an absolute treasure to work with, we are forever grateful!.".

Thank you for helping our consumers at home, at work and at play! For more information about LEAP, please visit LEAP's website !