My name is Leah Coney. I am the mother of Donovan Coney. We spoke today over ther phone regarding Donovan coming to the Madison clinic for treatment. I also received your message requesting info on Donovan and pics. Donovan was born healthy and with no complications. He was sent home at 2days old with me. The nurse who discharged us told me he was jaundiced but to just put him in front of the wiwndow. Horrible medical advise! By the time we were home for a day Donovan began to deteriorate. After being home only 36hr we had to rush him to Children\'s Hospital of Wisc. There we were told he had Severe Hyperbilirubinemia with cause Kernicterus. Kernicterus is when the basal ganglia is stained with bilirubin and caused motor development issues. His blood contained so much bilirubin that he required 2 exchange blood transfusions, this is what caused his hearing loss,Auditory Neuropathy This was all totally preventable and my little boy would be up and walking and talking if they had only kept him or sent him home with a set of phototherapy lights! I have found the support of many other parents whose children were delt the same blow, but everyday is a new adventure for us all. Donovan is very bright, but his method of communication creates a barrier in communicating with others outside of our family. He understands EVERYTHING, but can only say and exhibit a few things. we use sign language, picture communication and voice with him. It frustrates him when he cant get his little body to do the things he sees other kids doing. I want nothing more than to allow my child the ability to experience life on his own.Independence is what I see him longing for everyday. I thank God for organizations and hearts like your. We have been so blessed and we count each day as a blessing. Attached I have sent a few pics of Donovan and I did register him on therapie4kids and Bright steps Forward. Once again, thank you for your time and may God bless your life and your mission!