Andrew's House
Latest News - August 2008
The house is complete!
Thank you to everyone who volunteered of your time, talents and treasures. This project couldn't have happened without you.
Andrew's health has improved greatly and we look forward to watching him flourish in his new home.
The Stats
We have had over 300 people in the skilled trades express interest
in donating their time and talent.
CONTACT
For more information about Andrew's House please email us.
It was supposed to be one of the happiest days of their lives. After Millie's uneventful labor, they suddenly had only a glimpse of Andrew before he was whisked away by a team of doctors and nurses.
Over eight agonizing hours later they were told that Andrew's lungs were filled with meconium and the umbilical cord had been wrapped around his neck. He was struggling for survival and his only hope was to be placed on an ECMO ventilator. This machine would take the blood and pump it through an artificial lung where oxygen is added and carbon dioxide is removed.
By using ECMO, Andrew was given a 20% survival rate. Without it he would face only a 4% chance. After four days, his parents were told he was doing well enough to be removed from the machine. While this was very good news, the problem had taken a toll on his body. The side of his brain which controlled motor skills was swelled and the ECMO had wiped out his immune system. He was unable to eat normally and was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy.
Suddenly, the Ritter's world had been turned upside down. Doctor appointments average five times a day; a feeding tube had been inserted; Andrew became susceptible to pneumonia.
They were facing huge medical bills nearing $250,000. Their home needed major repairs. The electrical was outdated, there was no insulation in the attic which caused mold to form, and they had water damage in their furnace room causing the water tank to crash through the floor.
In their moment of despair, God's hand was there. They began to feel His presence surround them, guiding them and giving them strength. They have experienced a love far greater than they have ever known…all because of Andrew.
Paul said in Galatians "Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers."
We are a family - we live together, celebrate together, cry together, and help one another. This is our opportunity to journey with Curt and Millie. It is an opportunity to wrap our arms around a wonderful family in need and show the love of Christ.