Meet Madden

In December 2021, Lindsay gave birth to twins Madden and Maverick during her 25th week of pregnancy. At 2 months old, the twins were transferred Phoenix Children's NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit).

Madden and Maverick spent almost four months in the NICU, where Madden developed a grade 4 brain bleed. As a result of the brain bleed, he was diagnosed with cerebral palsy when he was a year old.

At first, Lindsay had a hard time accepting Madden's situation—she wanted him to have all the same opportunities as his twin brother. But her mind was put at ease by Madden's care team. “Madden was given the most incredible care after being diagnosed with cerebral palsy due to his brain bleed,” Lindsay says. “We are still receiving incredible care from the therapy team at Phoenix Children's outpatient rehab at Mercy Gilbert.”

Today, Madden is 2. Lindsay says he's thriving and working so hard to walk, talk and eat. Phoenix Children's is now a second home to her family because it has been a huge part of their lives for the past two years. She and her husband have five children, and they were very grateful when Phoenix Children's helped them with meal cards, gas cards and more during a tough time—crucial resources available to families in need thanks to philanthropy.

Madden's physical therapist, Kate, is also a ray of sunshine for the family, Lindsay says. Madden has therapy with her twice a week. Lindsay and her family view her as a “real gift.” Madden's therapies consist of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and feeding and speech therapies. He also receives Botox injections every three to four months to help with muscle tone.

Thanks to his lifesaving care, Madden enjoys playing outside and climbing on equipment. He also loves playing cars with his twin and best friend, Maverick, and enjoys cheering on his big brother during his football games.

“Now, I look at this sweet boy, and he's the happiest, strongest, most determined little boy,” Lindsay says. “I can't imagine him any other way.”