Meet Missy, a Walmart Associate in Maine with a Personal Connection to The Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital

Finding out whether you’re expecting a baby boy or a baby girl in a few months’ time is an exciting moment for every family. For Mexico Walmart associate Missy Patneaude, finding out that her first grandchild would be a baby boy was mixed with excitement and concern when the ultrasound revealed an unusual shadow on the baby’s brain. An in-depth ultrasound at Maine Medical Center revealed that her grandson had a condition called Dandy Walker, caused by a malformation affecting his brain development.

Missy’s grandson, Liam, was born on May 13^th, 2013 at The Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital (BBCH). Just three days later, he underwent surgery to have pockets of fluid removed from his brain. Liam stayed in the NICU at BBCH following his surgery, and has made several trips back to the children’s hospital since then to monitor his development and to receive treatments for various illnesses. Each and every time he returns, the nurses and doctors treat him like family.

Liam is now a kindergardener who enjoys walking with his gait trainer, splashing around in water, and playing at school. While treating his condition is an ongoing journey, the care that Liam and his family received at BBCH provided them with support and comfort when they needed it most.

Until July 7^th, Walmart and Sam’s Club locations in Maine and New Hampshire will be raising money in support of BBCH. Next time you visit your local Walmart location, consider making a donation to #HelpKidsLiveBetter.