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| Marc's Story |
| Marc Edward Quinn Jr. came into this world on 3/26/99, 5.5 weeks early via c-section due to severe oligohydramnios (low amniotic fluid), a poor biophysical profile (4/8) and breech presentation. Marcs initial diagnosis was "a healthy male infant" with apgars of 9 and 9. However, there were many hidden complications that would unfold over the course of the next few hours of his life. His condition rapidly worsened during the next 24 hours when finally, Marc had to be tranferred to Boston's Childrens Hospital for intensive care. He had the following diagnosis: Prematurity; Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE); Tension Pheumothrax; Central Apnea; Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension; Patent Ductus Arteriosus; Hemodynamic Instability and Hypotension; SIADH; Coagulapathy and thrombocyt Openia and Neutropenia. Marc was intubated for ten days at the NICU. Finally he was able to overcome most of his health issues with the exception of severe brain damage resulting from the hypoxic events before and after he was born, Central Apnea due to the brain injury, and Neutrophenia. Marc spent a total of three months in the hospital when finally, we were able to take him home with an oximeter, apnea monitor, continuous oxygen supply and eight hours of nursing per day. The biggest challenge Marc now faced was the severe brain damage he had suffered both in utero and post delivery. Although we understood (after many weeks of denial and disbelief) that the prognosis was "not good" for Marc, the day we took him home was the happiest day of our lives. Unfortunately, our precious time at home with him was shortened when his apnea spells began to suddenly worsen. On July 4th he was once again hospitalized with severe respiratory problems and increasing bradycardia. After previous MRI's and a recent catscan, we were told the news we had dreaded. Marc would be with us for only days, perhaps weeks due to cerebal atrophy (shrinking of brain due to dying cells). Our lives were shattered beyond belief as we had carried so much hope for our little boy. With the encouragement of the Doctors and Nurses involved in Marc's care, a few days later we made the decision to take him home where he belonged with his family close by at all times and to provide "comfort care" for him. Marc passed away three days later. Marc was such a spectacular, beautiful and heroic little boy who touched the lives and hearts of many in his short lifetime. In spite of Marc's challenges, he was a truly content little baby who loved to be held and cuddled and comforted! He enjoyed his tubby as it helped him to relax and helped keep his temp regulated and he loved to hang out with Mum and Dad and his doggie Bailey. Marc also loved to keep a close eye on Quackers and his favourite colour was of course yellow. In addition to his parents, Marc and Sandra, Marc Jr. is survived by his adoring Grandparents, Uncle and Aunt, Great Uncles and Aunts, two cousins and his dog Bailey. Marc is greatly missed by the wonderful Doctors, nurses and caregivers who were of tremendous support to us. Marc, you have changed our lives forever ~ You will be forever in our hearts. We love and miss you so very much Marc Edward Quinn Jr. |
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