Jaxon Buell was an extraordinary child who won the hearts of millions across the globe. Born on August 27, 2014, in Orlando, Florida, Jaxon was diagnosed with a rare condition called microhydranencephaly, leaving him with only about 20% of his brain. He was a boy who, against all medical odds, lived for more than five years.
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The case of Jaxon Buell started when his mother, Brittany Buell, was 17 weeks pregnant. In a routine ultrasound, the doctors discovered that Jaxon’s brain had failed to develop and was missing most of his skull. This came as a shock to Brittany, who had been praying for her unborn baby, as well as to her husband, Brandon Buell. Doctors informed Brittany and her husband that they could choose to end the pregnancy, but they refused because, as Christians, they believed that every life counts.
He was delivered via C-section at 37 weeks. Doctors immediately realized the condition; he was missing most of his skull, and he had bruises from the birth all over his body. Doctors didn’t even consider him living longer than a few hours, but this little baby defeated all of that. Jaxon spent the first three and a half weeks in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
As Jaxon Buell grew, so did the number of milestones and updates his parents were sharing on social media. They created a Facebook page called “Jaxon Strong” in order to share their journey and raise awareness for microhydranencephaly. The page gained a huge following and people from all over the world were inspired by Jaxon’s strength and resilience.
The news of Jaxon Buell spread like wildfire, and the little boy was termed as a “miracle baby” for beating all odds. However, Jaxon was still smiling, making eye contact, and responding to the voices of his parents. His parents shared pictures and videos of the little boy smiling for the first time and holding his head upright. Such posts filled the lives of many who followed his updates with hope and joy.
Baby Jaxon Buell was born on August 27, 2014. He bore a rare condition called microhydranencephaly, leaving him with only about 20% of his brain. Doctors said he would not even survive to his first birthday, but apparently, Jaxon had a different plan-five years, at least. His story gained widespread attention, and he became known as the “miracle baby” due to his resilience and the love and care from his family. Jaxon passed away peacefully on April 1, 2020, in North Carolina, surrounded by his family. His legacy continues to inspire many through the “Jaxon Strong” movement, which raises awareness about his condition and supports other families facing similar challenges.
After Jaxon Buell’s death, his parents, Brandon and Brittany Buell, continued to live up to his memory and legacy. They were committed to raising awareness about microhydranencephaly and supporting other families who faced the same situation. Brandon and Brittany have been very active in sharing Jaxon’s story through social media and their foundation, which focuses on helping children with brain malformations. Their advocacy efforts included organizing fundraisers, awareness events, and community-building activities. Despite the roller-coaster ride of emotions in losing Jaxon, they have channeled their grief into positive action, ensuring that Jaxon’s impact continues to be felt.
Jaxon’s life was not without challenges. He suffered from constant seizures and required a feeding tube for nourishment. His parents had to go through the plight of dealing with such a rare condition in a child, but they cared for him with the best possible health care. In addition, he faced criticism from others who questioned the decision to continue the pregnancy. Yet, the Buells could never forsake their faith that Jaxon’s life was a gift.
Many people were influenced by Jaxon’s story. His parents ensured that his story was shared with others, raising awareness about microhydranencephaly and how everyone’s life has value. Jaxon Strong is a movement that continues the legacy of living, encouraging individuals to support other families in the same situation, and advocating for better medical care and research about rare conditions.
March 2020 came and Jaxon Buell started deteriorating health-wise; hence, entering home hospice. His parents were aware of his limited lifetime but cherished their remaining time. April 1, 2020, happened when Jaxon went peacefully within the arms of his parents, but his death had nothing to do with COVID-19 because he knew, in fact that would be coming all along – it was an idea they grew up with Brandon shares.
Jaxon’s parents continue to honor his memory by sharing his story and advocating for families facing similar challenges. They believe that Jaxon’s life was a testament to the power of love, hope, and resilience. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who were touched by his story and inspired by his strength.
The story of Jaxon Buell is a reminder that every life, no matter how brief, can have a deep impact on the world. His journey of resilience and love continues to inspire and uplift people around the globe.
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