Who was Kai?
The Kai Jeremiah Foundation started as a result of the premature birth and passing of Kai Jeremiah Stewart. Kai was born at 24 weeks and 5 days gestation, weighing 1lb 9oz, after surviving with limited amniotic fluid in the womb for two weeks. Due to his early arrival, his lungs did not have enough time to mature, and he developed a bacterial growth in his lower lung lobes, leading to sepsis .
On January 20th, Kai seemed to be doing well in the morning, with improved vital signs and less swelling. However, his oxygen levels dropped slightly, and his parents, Dane and his wife Virginia, decided to stay by his side to ensure his well-being. They played his favorite song, "OCEANS" by Hillsong United, which usually calmed him down. While they were waiting for the doctors to arrive, Kai's condition started deteriorating rapidly.
Despite the efforts of the medical team to resuscitate him, Kai's heart stopped beating. The doctors immediately began CPR, while his parents pleaded for him to fight and stay with them. Tragically, at 9:05 am, Kai took his last breath and passed away. His parents held him, cherishing every detail of his tiny body, his scent, and his golden hair.
The profound loss of Kai inspired his parents to establish the Kai Jeremiah Foundation. They wanted to honor his memory and provide support to other families experiencing the challenges of premature birth. The foundation's mission is to offer emotional support, education, financial assistance, and care packages to families with preterm infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Through their foundation, they aim to make a difference in the lives of preemie babies and their families, ensuring that no family feels alone during their NICU journey.
The tragic loss of Kai serves as a driving force behind the foundation's dedication to providing resources and assistance to families facing similar struggles. The Kai Jeremiah Foundation stands as a symbol of hope, faith, resilience, and compassion, committed to making a positive impact in the lives of preemie babies and their families.