At just four years old, Carson Curry already knows a thing or two about resilience. Having weathered some of life’s most daunting storms, this little fighter from Fayette, Alabama is currently facing his toughest battle yet.
Two weeks ago, Carson received a heart transplant at Children’s of Alabama in Birmingham. It was a moment filled with hope, but just a day later, the unthinkable happened. Carson suffered a stroke, casting a shadow over the joy of his new heart. Yet through it all, Carson continues to show his incredible strength, supported by the unwavering love of his family and their deep faith in God.
Carson’s journey began long before this heart transplant. Born with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, a rare and severe congenital heart condition where the left side of the heart is underdeveloped, Carson’s life has always been a fight for survival. His first surgery came just seven days after he was born.
“Carson underwent his first open-heart surgery when he was 7 days old,” said his grandmother, Michelle Curington. “At the age of 4 months, he underwent his second surgery.”
Though Carson’s parents, Tyler and Ashley, had always known their son faced monumental health challenges, nothing could have prepared them for the heart-wrenching events that unfolded last December. “Last December, while Carson was at home, he went into cardiac arrest,” Michelle recalled, her voice filled with emotion. That moment, filled with fear and uncertainty, marked the beginning of a whirlwind spring for Carson and his family.
In the weeks that followed, doctors implanted a VAD (ventricular assist device) to help pump Carson’s blood, a temporary measure to give him time until a new heart could be found. The family held onto hope, knowing a heart transplant could change Carson’s life. And then, the day came. Carson received his new heart, and for a brief moment, joy filled the room. But just a day after the transplant, Carson’s condition took an unexpected turn. “He suffered a stroke a day after the surgery,” Michelle said quietly.
Since then, Carson’s journey has been a delicate balance between hope and concern. “Carson is still not communicating, but he’s moving his arms and legs and opening his eyes,” Michelle shared. “Carson’s vitals are good, and his heart is doing well—we are hoping for a full recovery.”
The uncertainty of the situation weighs heavily on Carson’s parents, Tyler and Ashley, as they stay by his side day and night, waiting for signs of progress. They have heard stories of miracles, but now, they are living one. “We have all heard of God performing miracles,” Michelle said, “When you see it firsthand, it changes your outlook on everything.”
The family’s faith remains strong, and they believe that God’s hand has been guiding Carson throughout his life. “We believe that God’s got this,” Michelle said. “We believe God performed a miracle when Carson went into cardiac arrest last December. We now need another miracle.” For Tyler and Ashley, watching their only child face such a daunting challenge is heartbreaking, but they remain hopeful, knowing that Carson is a fighter and that God’s timing is always perfect.
The hardest part for the family is the waiting. “Waiting is the hardest part,” Michelle admitted. But through it all, they continue to rally around Carson, providing him with love, strength, and encouragement as he battles on. “Carson has been through so much,” Michelle said, pausing for a moment to compose herself. “But we know he’s strong, and we know he has God on his side.”
As Carson continues to fight, his family is learning the true meaning of faith and perseverance. Despite the uncertainty of the road ahead, they hold onto the belief that Carson will overcome this challenge, just as he has overcome so many others in his young life. “Somewhere deep down, Carson knows,” Michelle said with a glimmer of hope in her eyes. “Carson knows that God’s got this.”
The road to recovery is long, and there are still many hurdles to overcome, but with the unwavering support of his family and the power of faith, Carson is ready for whatever comes next. As his parents, grandparents, and extended family members continue to stand by him, they are all holding onto the belief that Carson’s journey is far from over—and that the miracles they’ve witnessed are just the beginning.
Carson Curry may be small, but his spirit is mighty. He’s a fighter, and with his family’s love and God’s grace, there’s no doubt that he will continue to fight and overcome the obstacles in his path. His story is one of hope, faith, and strength—a reminder to us all that no matter what challenges we face, we are never alone.
Harrison Petite: A Symbol of Strength and Love as He Takes His First Steps
At just 17 months old, Harrison Petite has already proven that he is a fighter. Born at just 28 weeks, weighing only 2 lbs, 12 oz, Harrison’s journey has been filled with challenges and triumphs. Despite early delays, Harrison has recently reached a milestone that fills his family with immense pride—he’s walking! This joyful achievement comes just 17 days before the first anniversary of his mother, Maddie Petite’s, passing. As Harrison takes his first steps, he does so with the love and legacy of his mother guiding him every step of the way. His smile and newfound independence are a testament to Maddie’s strength and the love she left behind.
A Premature Start: Harrison’s Early Struggles and Determination
Harrison’s early days were marked by uncertainty. Born prematurely at 28 weeks, Harrison faced the immense challenge of starting life in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Weighing only 2 lbs, 12 oz, Harrison’s tiny body had to fight to survive in those early days. His mother, Maddie Petite, was by his side, even as she faced her own health battles. Maddie, a 28-year-old teacher and coach at Foley Middle School, had been diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer a few years prior. Despite her own life-threatening illness, Maddie was determined to bring her son into the world and provide him with the love and care he needed to survive. The road was difficult, but Maddie’s love for Harrison never wavered.
Maddie’s Unyielding Love: A Mother’s Fight Against Cancer
Maddie’s story is one of resilience, determination, and deep love for her son. After being diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer, Maddie was determined to fight with everything she had. She continued her career as a teacher and coach while undergoing treatments, doing everything possible to stay strong for Harrison. In March of 2024, Maddie made the selfless decision to deliver Harrison via C-section so that she could begin her chemotherapy treatments immediately. Despite the challenges of both her illness and the premature birth of Harrison, Maddie remained a beacon of strength, fighting for her son’s future even as her own health began to deteriorate.
A Mother’s Legacy: Harrison’s First Steps and the Memory of Maddie
As Harrison reaches a significant milestone in his life, his family is reminded of the legacy left behind by his mother. On the eve of the one-year anniversary of Maddie’s passing, Harrison took his first steps, a moment that will forever be remembered by those who loved Maddie. Her strength, her love, and her determination to be there for her son, even through the most challenging of circumstances, will continue to live on in Harrison’s journey. As Harrison walks proudly, with a smile that reflects his mother’s spirit, his family is filled with bittersweet joy. This milestone is not just about Harrison’s growth; it’s a tribute to the love and strength of a mother who gave everything for her child.
The Struggles of Losing a Mother: Maddie’s Passing and Harrison’s Journey Ahead
On August 26th, 2024, just five months after Harrison’s birth, Maddie passed away, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and hope. Her death was a profound loss for her family, especially for Harrison, who would grow up without the physical presence of his mother. But Maddie’s influence continues to shape Harrison’s life. Even though she is no longer here, her love surrounds him, and her memory will guide him through the challenges he will face in the years to come. For Harrison, the journey ahead will not be without its difficulties, but he carries with him the foundation of his mother’s unyielding love and determination.
A Family United in Love: Harrison’s Grandmother, Jennifer Petite, Steps In
After Maddie’s passing, Harrison moved in with his grandmother, Jennifer Petite. Jennifer has stepped in to fill the gap left by her daughter’s death, providing Harrison with the care, love, and support he needs as he grows. Jennifer, like the rest of the family, is deeply committed to honoring Maddie’s memory and ensuring that Harrison is surrounded by love. As a grandmother, Jennifer’s role has become even more significant in the wake of such an immense loss. She is dedicated to giving Harrison the best possible start in life, while keeping Maddie’s memory alive in their daily lives.
Honoring Maddie: The One-Year Anniversary of Her Passing
In just a few weeks, Harrison’s family will mark the first anniversary of Maddie’s passing. This milestone will be an emotional one, filled with both sorrow and gratitude. Maddie’s family will take this time to honor her memory and reflect on the incredible impact she had on their lives. For Jennifer, Harrison, and all who loved Maddie, this day will be a reminder of her strength and the love she gave so freely. Though Maddie is no longer physically present, her legacy continues to guide her family as they move forward without her.
A Growing Miracle: Harrison’s Journey of Strength and Love
As Harrison continues to grow, his family is committed to giving him the best possible future. Despite the challenges he has faced, including the loss of his mother and his early health struggles, Harrison is a miracle in the making. His walking and newfound independence are signs of his strength and the love that surrounds him. Every step he takes is a victory, not just for him, but for the memory of his mother, who fought so hard to ensure that he would have a chance at life. Harrison’s journey is still in its early stages, but he is already proving to be a resilient and courageous little boy.
A Community’s Support: The Love and Prayers Surrounding Harrison
Throughout Maddie’s illness and Harrison’s journey, the support from their community has been unwavering. Friends, family, and even strangers have rallied around Harrison, offering their love, prayers, and support. This sense of community has been a lifeline for Maddie’s family, providing them with the strength to continue moving forward. As Harrison continues to grow and face life’s challenges, he does so with the knowledge that he is loved by so many people who care about him. The power of community has played a vital role in Harrison’s healing, and it continues to surround him as he moves through each stage of his life.
A Future Full of Hope: The Road Ahead for Harrison
While the road ahead will not be easy, Harrison’s future is full of hope. His first steps are just the beginning of what will undoubtedly be a remarkable journey. With the love of his family, the memory of his mother, and the support of his community, Harrison is well-equipped to face whatever challenges come his way. His story is one of resilience, love, and the unbreakable bond between a mother and her child. As he continues to grow, Harrison’s family will be there to support him, guide him, and honor the memory of Maddie as he moves forward into a bright future.
