There is good news to start the week for Callen Stuart, a 7-month-old from Evergreen, Alabama, who is showing incredible strength following a complex and life-changing surgery at Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital in Nashville.
Callen was born with his bladder outside of his body — a rare and serious condition requiring highly specialized care. Three days ago, a surgical team successfully placed his bladder back where it belongs, giving him a chance at a healthier, more normal life.
On Sunday night, Callen’s mother Shania Stuart shared an uplifting update on her son’s recovery.
“Callen did really well with the surgery,” she said. “It ended around 4 p.m., and we were able to see him in recovery in the ICU around 6. We are still in the ICU but hope to move to a regular room soon.”
Though swelling has peaked — a normal part of healing — doctors expect it to begin decreasing. Callen has already made impressive progress. He has been taken off all medications except his epidural, and the ventilator was removed, allowing him to breathe on his own.
“He’s been doing so good,” Shania shared. “He even had his first sips of juice today, and that made him a happy boy. He got his smile back today — and that makes me so happy.”
Despite the seriousness of the surgery, Callen has had no complications and is bouncing back faster than anyone could have hoped.
“It’s truly a miracle how fast he is recovering,” Shania said. “We are so proud of him and so thankful for God’s hand over Callen.”
Surrounded by the love and support of his parents, Shania and Allen, and his sister Cari, Callen’s journey is now filled with hope, healing, and the promise of a bright future.
This brave little boy is proving that even the tiniest fighters can have the biggest strength. đź’›
