Asher

Immediately after his birth, Asher was diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy, or SMA. He has one of the most severe types of SMA, rendering him nearly completely dependent on a ventilator. He could not breathe or even sit up on his own.

Families dealing with SMA initially had no treatment options, until a new drug, Spinarza, was approved by the FDA to help treat this rare muscular disorder.

Asher had his first infusion into his spinal column at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. After just a few days, his family started seeing improvements. He continued to improve, sitting up on his own, and going hours without the need of ventilator support.

Asher’s care team decided that a move to Ranken Jordan and our Care Beyond the Bedside philosophy would be a perfect next step. Asher and family could socialize and play like other kids. His dad could bring him outside and play on the swings. Ranken Jordan gave his parents the confidence that they would eventually be able to provide his care independently at home.

After months of therapy and regular infusions of Spinarza, he continues to make progress. After spending the first seven months of life inside a hospital, Asher has successfully bridged home to enjoy childhood with his adoring brothers.