Updated: Wednesday, 10 Jun 2009, 5:33 PM EDT
Published : Wednesday, 10 Jun 2009, 12:25 PM EDT
New Haven (WTNH) - This week's Wednesday's Child is four month old Andrew. He's getting all the care he needs at Connecticut Children's Medical Center. Now, all he needs is the love of a family.
Andrew's tiny little fingers are looking for a steady hand to hold. Because of medical complications, Andrew was born paralyzed from the chest down. A ventilator helps him breathe, and he'll likely need a wheelchair as he gets older -- but it's unclear for how long.
"Starting out, he'll need 16 hours of nursing care each day, and a family with the organization and communication skills to keep it going," said DCF social worker, Danielle Turner.
Specialized medical care will be essential. But the support and security of a family makes a real difference in just how well children like Andrew do.
"He needs a family that is dedicated to his needs, that is able to work with a team. There will be a lot of nurses, a lot of doctors, a lot of service providers that will be working with him," Turner said.
For Andrew, it will take a team effort and a family with the organization and communication skills to keep it going.
If you are interested in adopting Andrew, or if you'd just like to learn more about becoming a foster parent, call 1-800-842-6348.