Children’s Care Fund — Hannah's Journey

The community's support of the Children’s Care Fund is what makes beautiful success stories like Hannah Arrigo's a reality.

Read Jonathan Arrigo's account of his daughter Hannah and wife Michele's journey below:

"Hannah Brielle Arrigo was originally due Feb. 7, 2021. In November, Michele was feeling unwell, so she went to the Emergency Department and was diagnosed with pre-eclampsia and early onset HELLP syndrome. With the help of the UPMC Hamot's labor and delivery team, Michele was able to get steroids on board to help develop Hannah's lungs. Due to Michele's dangerous symptoms, Hannah needed to be delivered right away. Hannah was born on Nov. 22, 28 weeks and 6 days old, at 2 pounds, 2 ounces.

Prior to her delivery, the neonatologist visited us in the hospital to prepare us for her NICU stay. During delivery, NICU was prepared for Hannah's arrival and helped us with any questions. Hannah was settled in the NICU and staff kindly provided us with a 24/7 live footage camera, due to Michele being in critical condition and not allowed visitors.

From the moment she was in the NICU, we felt very comfortable with the care she was receiving. The physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, patient care techs, and everyone who helped care for Hannah kept us comforted and at ease. When we couldn't be there, they kept us informed of any changes to Hannah's care plan. While she was in the NICU, Hannah needed months of supplemental oxygen, feeding tubes, and intermittent medication. While undergoing many tests, they discovered she had two small brain bleeds that needed to be observed. She also had other tests such as an echocardiogram to examine her heart, vision tests to check the growth of her eyes, and continuous blood work.

Hannah spent 71 days in the NICU before we were able to bring her home to finally meet her three sisters and one brother. Through the ups and downs of having a baby in the NICU, it was great that the UPMC Hamot staff was so helpful and transparent about her care. It was nice to know that they cared for Hannah just like she was one of their own."

You can tune in to 94.7 Bob FM around 2:30 p.m. on June 16 to hear the Arrigo's tell their story live on-air!

We hope you can support Bob-a-Thon and donate to the Children's Care Fund.