“I had to relearn, from scratch, how to be a mother—when I already was one.” — Patricia, Emrick’s mother
Illness has no place in a child’s life.
Facing the unknown
When Emrick is born, Patricia and Martin have no idea that their newborn will follow an atypical path. Born at the Lac‑Mégantic hospital after a difficult delivery for both mother and baby, Emrick worries his parents from his very first hours of life. His blood sugar level drops dangerously low, putting him at risk of falling into a coma. Temporary hypoglycemia is relatively common in newborns and usually resolves within hours. In Emrick’s case, however, the numbers keep falling. He is placed on intravenous fluids to help him regain strength. He is too weak to feed.
Just a few days later, Emrick is transferred urgently to the Hôpital Fleurimont of the CIUSSS de l’Estrie – CHUS. There, he undergoes a series of tests and examinations to determine the cause of his condition. Three weeks later, while still hospitalized in neonatal care, the diagnosis is confirmed: Emrick has congenital hyperinsulinism, a rare endocrine disorder that disrupts insulin regulation and can lead to neurological damage without treatment. After a month in hospital, the family is finally able to return home, uncertain about what the future holds.
A close‑knit family
Emrick’s first years were marked by frequent hospital stays, close medical follow ups and nights interrupted by the need to feed him so his blood sugar would not drop. Life changed completely for his parents. They had to adjust to the reality of their little boy. His condition requires regular appointments with a whole team of specialists, including an endocrinologist, a nutritionist, a pediatrician, and an immunologist. Every day, his blood sugar must be monitored. His diet and weight must be carefully maintained, and his feeding tube changed regularly. Drinking, eating, and growing each come with their own challenges for young Emrick. His family has reorganized their daily life around his fragile health.
Today, his life feels relatively normal. Whether close to home or at Hôpital Fleurimont, he receives care that is adapted to his needs. He wears a glucose sensor on his arm and is learning to monitor his levels himself. He also takes medication to regulate his insulin. These challenges do not define him. He does gymnastics and dreams of playing soccer. His smile is radiant. With his parents and his sister beside him, he is learning to listen to his body, to rest when his energy fades and to adapt with courage.
While his parents juggle medical appointments, genetic testing and the unexpected, Emrick gets to focus on simply being a child. Patricia and Martin take comfort in knowing that a dedicated team of professionals is watching over their son’s health. Each day brings its share of uncertainty, but they are unwavering about one thing: their little boy is incredibly resilient.
Thanks to your generosity, there are beautiful things on the horizon for children like Emrick.
– Patricia, Martin and Annabelle
Emrick, a resilient little boy
Learn about Emrick’s story—he has congenital hyperinsulinism.
