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Nicki Blakely never imagined the path she’d be walking when her daughter, Violet Elise, was born in March 2023. As a mother, her wish was to bring a healthy rainbow baby into the world after several years of pregnancy loss and infertility. Instead, her unborn baby was diagnosed with an omphalocele, a rare condition where organs develop outside the body, leading to immediate challenges and high infant mortality rate, that no parent can prepare for.

The first six months of Violet’s life were spent in the NICU at Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago. During this time, she underwent multiple surgeries and procedures to reposition her tiny organs and close up her body. Nicki stood by her side every step of the way, living most of those six months at the Ronald McDonald House while her husband John managed the household and cared for their two older sons. 

Adapting to Life at Home

Finally, after months of worry and uncertainty, Violet came home. She was happy and thriving in so many ways, but her medical needs are far from over. This past summer Violet had a g-tube placed for feeding and was diagnosed with a cleft palate, requiring further attention, surgery, and care. Nicki now finds herself regularly traveling to Chicago for follow-up appointments and to see specialists to ensure Violet continues to gain independence and grow.

Nicki has been an unwavering advocate and fierce mother throughout this entire process. From the early surgeries to daily care, she has dedicated her time and energy to ensuring Violet has the best possible care. With Nicki out of work to care for her daughter, the family faces significant financial challenges. The costs of traveling weekly to appointments — in Chicago, Lombard, and Skokie — have quickly added up.

Nominated by a close childhood friend for the Keeping Caregivers Close Grant, the funds received by the Blakely Family will provide a small financial relief towards travel and accommodation expenses as they continue, as a family, to prioritize Violet’s health. 

Nicki and John’s focus remains on keeping Violet the happy and vibrant child she has become, but the road is long, and Nicki is unable to return to her job as a teacher as Violet requires specialized care. This family has risen to the occasion and together navigates this complex medical journey, as it is important to note that Violet’s older siblings Shane (11) and Ben (9) are also her fierce protectors, champions, and caregivers as well.

The Impact of Your Support
Let’s rally around Nicki, John, Violet, Shane, and Ben, helping them feel the love and community behind them. We invite you to join us in supporting caregivers like Nicki, who dedicate themselves to the well-being of their loved ones. Your contributions to Cocktails & Caregivers make a difference. 

Together, we can help lighten the load and provide the care and support that caregivers like the Blakely Family need to allow them to focus on what truly matters. cocktailsandcaregivers.org/donate.