My name is Jarrod Lederer, son of Lynn and Norwin Lederer. I was born on 19.06.2008, and at birth I was diagnosed as having an arteriovenous malformation (or AVM for short). It is a very rare congenital condition that results in the veins and arteries in my brain (specifically in the Vein of Galen), to merge, or short circuit. The effect is that blood rushes from my heart and lungs, through the brain, straight back to the heart, without reducing in pressure or dispensing of much needed oxygen.
My prognosis at birth was 0%, i.e. literally no chance of survival. But thanks to my wonderful Mommy and Daddy's determination, and my experienced and dedicated medical team, I survived. It has not been an easy journey, as I spent the first 5 months of my life in NNICU (neo-natal ICU), and to date I've had 13 procedures, 7 of which have equated to brain surgery. I was fed through a tube in my tummy for almost a year, and my muscles all atrophied as a result of my lack of inactivity. My little heart failed four times, and my lungs collapsed more than once. I spent much of my time in hospital on a ventilator, making it nearly impossible to get warm comforting hugs from my Mommy and Daddy. I basically spent six months staring at the ceiling!
On more than one occasion I almost died, either from surgical complications or my heart or lungs not being able to keep up. Each time the love and support of my fans carried me through, as well as expert and immediate attention of my medical team.
Now, I am home, and every week I still continue to publish my blog, which documents my life and depicts my antics in pictures. I'm not yet out of danger, and Mommy and Daddy heave a sigh of relief each time I make it through the night successfully, or another procedure. But with your help, support, prayers, and positive energy it will certainly make it easier on all of us. Please come back to visit regularly, or subscribe (click here) and have my latest blog postings delivered directly to you.
Happy birthday to a very special big boy! We hope you have a fabulous day with lots of hugs, kisses and treats. We’re looking forward to your party.
Tons of love
Claire & Bev
Happy, Happy Birthday Cuddlebunny! Hope you are having an awesome day and enjoy all the spoiling you get!
Love and hugs
Lynne
PS. Congrats to your wonderfull folks too š
Happy Birthday Little Angel. Wow looking at these photo’s of your last year is totally amazing!
You are such a strong boy and you have been through more than most adults I know!!
Have a wonderful birthday weekend.
Lots and Lots of Love to you and Mom and Dad
Jenni
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Ooopss…. that was not supposed to be a cross face it was supposed to be a kissing smiley!
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Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to youuuuuu, happy birthday dear Jarrod, happy birthday to you!!! Hippip Hooray, Hippip Hooray.
Wishing you a truly awesome day, filled with lots of love, hugs, happiness and presents!!!
You are one truly special little boy, and this is a very special day for you.
Happy 1st birthday big boy!
Love and hugs
The Woods
Happy birthday to you, Jarrod – such a milestone for you and your awesome parents.
With love & cuddles
Tom & Di
To the bravest little Guy, sorry Big Boy, we know,
Happy birthday to you!! May God keep and bless you and your parents even more in this new year than He has already done!!
Lotsa love, hugs and kisses
Andre, Karin, Robaine and Zander
Happy 1st birthday darling Jarrod!We join with all your friends and family in sending you all our love and many many blessings!
Cant wait to give you real kisses and cuddles when you come to Cape Town.
Lots of love
Linda and Wayne xoxoxoxox