the story

The letter from Bowen's father, Ben McElreath, to the staff at MCGHealth

Heart and Sole, Inc. is a vital part of my life. As with so many young couples anticipating the arrival of their firstborn, our thoughts were filled with finishing the nursery, purchasing the baby a perfect take-home outfit and properly securing the infant seat in the car for the trip back home. We knew this baby would change our lives. We just did not know she would change it in this way.

As soon as Bowen was born, she struggled to live. Bowen was quickly transferred to the technologically advanced Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at MCGHealth Children's Medical Center where we were awed by the staff's world-class care and exceptional skill. Everyone of the doctors and nurses worked tirelessly to cure Bowen. We prayed and anguished as we waited for her health to improve. We also tried to remain strong despite knowing the severity of her sickness.Bowen fought bravely. However, in the end, Bowen did not go home to her freshly painted nursery in her new car seat but instead returned to her Heavenly home.

I share her story and our experience to not only illustrate the impact Bowen had on our lives and so many others but to honor and recognize the special place and people that make up MCGHealth Children's Hospital. We cherish our memories there because that was Bowen’s life: thirteen days; 10 of those spent at MCG under their exceptional care and supervision. And, as some may be led to believe, we are not bitter, resentful nor discouraged but, in contrast, we are grateful. We are grateful for the specialized services they provide to children in need.

That is why Heart and Sole, Inc. was created. Under the vision and hard work of my sister-in-law Stacey Haskins, Heart and Sole was formed to provide MCG Children's Medical Center Heart Program with the tools and support needed to continue to provide outstanding care to other children who suffer from health conditions similar to Bowen’s. Besides providing medical support, our hope is that it will also provide support to other first time parents who anticipate a healthy baby and then quickly realize the stresses associated with being a parent of a critically ill child.