The timeless phrase, “We don’t care if it’s a boy or girl, all we want is for the baby to be healthy,” resonates with most parents. Regrettably, not all parents are fortunate enough to witness their child’s healthy development, as experienced by Crysie and Ryan Grelecki from Marietta, Georgia.
In 2008, parents world brimmed with joy upon discovering Crysie’s pregnancy. However, at the 20-week mark, their elation turned to despair during one of the early ultrasounds. The nurse, observing their unborn son Parker, noticed an unusually enlarged head, prompting immediate concern and a call for further assistance. The gravity and shock of Parker’s condition were unanimously acknowledged by the medical experts who examined his scans.
In a heartbreaking turn of events, it was discovered that their son Parker faced an obstruction between the third and fourth ventricles of his brain, hindering the drainage of spinal fluid. Consequently, fluid accumulated, exerting pressure on Parker’s brain against his skull. This condition, affecting approximately two out of every 1,000 births in the U.S., presented an immense challenge for Parker and his parents, Crysie and Ryan Grelecki.
Upon receiving the news of their baby’s abnormality, Crysie and Ryan were taken aback and filled with deep concern. However, they chose to embrace an unwavering commitment to their unborn child, exemplifying the profound love of devoted parents. Crysie shared her emotional journey on Facebook, recounting moments of fear and doubt, but finding solace in a song that echoed in her mind, reminding her of God’s presence and the assurance that He would make a way.
Typically, a newborn possesses 90-95% brain matter and 5-10% fluid within the cranial cavity. However, when Parker entered the world in September 2008, the stark reality was evident. With over 98% fluid and a mere 8 millimeters of brain matter, his condition was an extraordinary and daunting challenge to overcome.
In a moment of urgency, Parker entered the world through a C-section at 39 weeks. The circumstances surrounding his birth were nothing short of chaotic, as his future hung precariously in the balance. The question of survival loomed, leaving everyone uncertain about the life that awaited him.
However, amidst the uncertainty, Parker was blessed with unwavering support from his loving parents, who cherished their precious baby boy above all else. Ryan, Parker’s father, recounted the profound bond they shared during those challenging moments. He remained at Parker’s side, offering words of comfort, fervent prayers, gentle touches, and soothing gestures. The overwhelming force of unconditional love enveloped them, as they grappled with the helplessness of being unable to alleviate Parker’s struggles.
When Parker was merely two days old, a team of medical experts at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta took action. They initiated a procedure to drain the excess fluid from his skull, alleviating the mounting pressure. This critical intervention enabled Parker’s brain to grow and develop naturally, laying the foundation for his journey ahead.
Following his initial days, Parker embarked on a series of surgeries aimed at addressing his skull malformation. Aware of the magnitude of the task at hand, doctors faced a daunting undertaking. Their primary objective was to expand Parker’s skull, delicately separating the fused bones to create space for his developing brain.
Remarkably, just two weeks later, Parker was deemed fit to leave the hospital and return home. Four weeks after that pivotal moment, he commenced physical therapy, commencing an essential phase of his recovery and rehabilitation.
As Parker reached the milestone of 20 months, he had triumphed over numerous hurdles, undergoing a remarkable total of seven successful surgeries. His recovery astounded all those involved in his care. According to his mother, Crysie, it took time for Parker to develop the ability to sit independently and hold his head up, but his determination prevailed in the end.
In a surprising twist, Parker bypassed the typical crawling stage and defied expectations by walking directly. His parents credit the unwavering support and expertise of the Children’s Hospital in Atlanta, whose staff became an integral part of their extended family. The dedication and compassion displayed by the team at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta left an indelible mark on Parker’s parents, who deeply appreciated how the staff embraced Parker as their own, fostering a profound bond that went beyond medical care.
Born with less than 2% brain matter, Parker Grelecki stands as a living testament to the extraordinary power of resilience and the miracles that can unfold. As his parents, Ryan and Crysie Grelecki express their boundless gratitude for the privilege of raising Parker, they continue to witness his progression and embrace the divine purpose that unfolds in his life.
Watch Parker’s incredible transformation below:
Parker, a precious and remarkable young boy, stands as a testament to the indomitable human spirit. May blessings from above be bestowed upon Parker and his family as they navigate their extraordinary journey together.