Markus was born on January 5, 2023, in Easton, Pennsylvania, after a pregnancy filled with serious diagnoses and moments of deep uncertainty. During prenatal testing, doctors identified multiple anomalies, including a single umbilical artery, dextroposition (heart shifted to the right), hypoplastic right lung, pulmonary sequestration, a large atrial septal defect (ASD), mesocardia, diaphragmatic hernia, and left microtia. I was advised on three separate occasions to consider termination. Each time, I chose faith over fear, believing that my son’s life had a purpose.

A Fight for Life

On his third day of life, Markus was transferred to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for emergency care. At just a few weeks old, he underwent a life-saving cardiac catheterization performed by Dr. Michael O’Byrne, during which abnormal arteries (MAPCAs) were coiled to stabilize his heart and lungs. Against all odds, Markus survived without requiring major surgery, oxygen, or long-term medication. Genetic testing revealed no syndromic abnormalities, and his heart continues to function normally despite being positioned on the right side.

Today: A Thriving Miracle

Today, Markus is a joyful, thriving toddler who has defied every medical prognosis. He was born with left microtia, a congenital condition where the outer ear is underdeveloped, affecting both its structure and hearing. After thorough evaluations, Dr. Youssef Tahiri, a world-renowned pediatric microtia and craniofacial surgeon based in Beverly Hills, California, has recommended reconstructive ear surgery with fat grafting to restore both form and function. This is not a cosmetic procedure—it is medically necessary to support Markus’s hearing development, emotional well-being, and quality of life.

Financial Need

Unfortunately, our insurance (Caritas PA) does not cover out-of-state surgeries. We received an official surgical quote of $75,800, which includes the surgeon’s fees, anesthesia, surgery center costs, and all required follow-up appointments. In addition, Markus will need five to six in-person visits in California for pre-operative, surgical, and post-operative care over approximately one month. The total estimated need is $80,000, which includes surgery and medical expenses, as well as additional funds for airfare and temporary lodging during treatment. We are applying to charitable foundations and grant programs, but we also need the help of our community to make this life-changing surgery possible.

How You Can Help

Your generosity will help us fund Markus’s reconstructive ear surgery, cover travel and temporary lodging for his medical care, and support any necessary audiology follow-up. Markus’s story is one of faith, resilience, and miracles. He survived multiple diagnoses that many believed he wouldn’t—and now he has the chance to continue thriving with your help. Every donation, prayer, and share brings us closer to giving Markus the gift of hearing and continued healing.

Thank you for reading our story and standing with us on this journey. 🙏

With heartfelt gratitude,

Angélica Báez