On December 8, 2025, a ray of hope shone through a challenging road for baby Judd, who continues to fight bravely against his medical challenges. Yesterday, Judd underwent two cap trials as part of the effort to see if he is ready to come off of the ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation) circuit that has been supporting his heart and lungs. These trials were crucial milestones, and the results showed significant progress. The first trial lasted 45 minutes, and the second trial lasted 34 minutes—both of which were major improvements from his last attempt. The goal now, and the prayer that his family holds close to their hearts, is that Judd will be able to come off ECMO sometime this week.
The ECMO circuit has been a vital part of Judd’s care, but it is not a permanent solution. His medical team has been working tirelessly to help him gradually recover enough to breathe and circulate blood on his own. Every minute off ECMO is a sign of improvement, a testament to Judd’s resilience, and a glimmer of hope that he is on his way to recovery. His family, especially his parents, continue to hold onto faith and remain optimistic that Judd’s body will continue to grow stronger each day.
In addition to the ECMO trials, Judd’s kidney function is showing signs of improvement. His kidney numbers are trending in the right direction, which is another positive sign that his organs are responding well to treatment. It’s been a long road, but every small victory—every positive shift in his condition—reminds his family that progress is being made, no matter how slow or small it may seem.
However, despite these signs of progress, Judd’s journey remains a complex one. He developed a condition called chyle, which affects the lymphatic system and impacts his ability to process fats. As a result, he has had to be given skimmed breast milk that has been fortified with higher-calorie formula, until the chyle clears and he can tolerate full-fat milk again. It’s just another hurdle in his recovery, but it’s one that his medical team is prepared to handle as they continue to monitor his condition closely.
Through all of this, Judd’s family remains by his side, watching him grow and showing their unwavering love and support. Despite the immense challenges they face, they find joy in the small moments—like his reactions to his dad’s favorite football team, the Bengals. Just like his dad, baby Judd wasn’t thrilled with the Bengals’ performance yesterday. But despite the setbacks, they’re both hopeful that the team will still have a couple of wins left in them before the season ends. It’s moments like these—small, relatable joys—that remind the family to hold onto hope, to keep smiling, and to celebrate every little step forward.
The journey for Judd and his family is far from easy, but the strength they show each day is a powerful example of resilience in the face of adversity. Judd’s progress, while slow and steady, is a testament to the hard work of his medical team and the incredible love and support from his family. Every step, no matter how small, brings them closer to the day when Judd will be healthy and thriving.
Judd’s story is far from over, but every day he makes a little more progress, and every trial he faces only strengthens the bond he shares with his family. Their faith, their determination, and their love for their son fuel the hope that continues to carry them through each difficult moment.
As we continue to follow Judd’s journey, we ask for prayers and positive thoughts to help him stay strong. His family is hopeful, knowing that each small victory is one step closer to his full recovery. Thank you to everyone who continues to support this brave little fighter and his family. They are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers they’ve received.
Please continue to keep baby Judd in your thoughts and prayers as he moves closer to the day he can come off ECMO and continue his journey toward recovery. With each passing day, he’s showing us all that miracles, no matter how small, are still happening. 🙏🏼💙
