Mark

Baby Mark, from Makwa, SK., defied all odds, staying in utero nearly nine weeks after his mother Katie’s water broke at 18 weeks of pregnancy. 

After Katie’s water broke, she, her husband and older son frequently traveled to Saskatchewan’s Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital (JPCH), eventually moving to Saskatoon at 23 weeks pregnant to be closer to the facility’s world-class health care. 

Mark was born a few weeks later through an emergency cesarean. As of today, Mark has spent the majority of his life intubated and in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), but has recently been extubated to non-invasive ventilation in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at JPCH. 

 “It has been a rollercoaster and the hardest time of our lives. You never imagine this would happen to you or your child,” said Katie, reflecting on her son’s journey. Mark’s largest challenge is his underdeveloped lungs, which were only at 18 weeks of development at birth. As a result, he has required ventilator support, high oxygen and medications to manage complications with his heart. Despite these barriers, his parents still find moments of joy and connection with their son.

“Intubation doesn’t stop us from getting him out for snuggles or sitting him up for playtime,” said Katie.  “Mark continues to amaze and inspire us,” she continued, reflecting on the undeniable resilience of her son. Katie is thankful for the invaluable support of JPCH staff through Mark’s health care journey. 

 “The staff is truly wonderful and take care of my boy like he’s their own. They continue to go above and beyond, and do things like decorate, make signs and even created a onesie for him. It puts smiles on our faces every day,” said Katie. 

Katie encourages others to support JPCH, saying, “Donating will allow JPCH to continue their phenomenal care, innovate and improve how they can make patients and their families feel more comfortable during their stay.”

Please donate to Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation to help kids like Mark.