Stranger at SeaWorld helps save baby's life from rare genetic condition

In July, Sarah Love and her husband Micah were on a family day trip to SeaWorld in Florida when a stranger made an alarming observation regarding their newborn son, Lincoln. The stranger noted a yellowing of Lincoln's skin and urged the couple to seek medical attention. Following this encounter, Sarah and Micah consulted specialists, which led to a series of tests that confirmed their son was suffering from biliary atresia, a rare childhood liver disease affecting one in every 12,000 babies born in the United States. This condition blocks bile ducts, causing bilirubin to build up in the blood, resulting in jaundice. After Lincoln's diagnosis, he underwent two surgeries, requiring a lengthy hospital stay of over a month at Nemours Children's Hospital in Orlando. It was during his treatment that doctors discovered he also had Alagille syndrome, a genetic disorder that affects the bile ducts and can cause further complications, including damage to the liver and other organs. Alagille syndrome occurs in approximately one in 70,000 newborns and adds significant health risks, as affected children can develop kidney problems, heart issues, and skeletal deformities. Since birth, Lincoln exhibited symptoms indicative of this condition, including persistent jaundice, but initial examinations by his pediatrician did not lead to immediate action. The Love family is now keen to express their gratitude towards the stranger who alerted them during their outing, as they believe his timely advice may have been crucial in addressing Lincoln's medical needs before they became life-threatening. Despite Lincoln's current stable health, his parents are aware that they may face future medical challenges, including the possibility of liver transplantation as he grows older. On average, children with Alagille syndrome may require a liver transplant by the time they are approximately eight years old. Sarah Love hopes that by sharing their experience, they can raise awareness about biliary atresia and Alagille syndrome, encouraging other parents to seek prompt medical care if they notice similar symptoms in their children. Their story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of vigilance regarding the health of infants and the potential life-saving impact an alert stranger can have.