My name is Miranda Joiner and I am sending you a brief summary about my baby and the things he has endured in the last few months.

Born at 27 weeks on May 26, 2009, baby Allen was doing rather well for a premature baby. On June 19, 2009, that all changed though. Allen was diagnosed with an infection called serratia which led to bacterial spinal meningitis. With a series of strokes and brain bleeds, and his lungs collapsed, the doctors said that they had done all that they could do for him and gave him 2-24 hours to live. Allen, with the grace of God, made a miraculous recovery.

Following the large setback, Allen experienced more traumas including three brain surgeries and a shunt placement on his head — all performed at MCG in Augusta. After four months in the hospital, Allen has finally made it home. The road is a long one and the doctors expect him to have problems developmentally. However, he has overcome so much, so far — the family expects a full recovery. Allen has to go to Augusta and Waycross frequently for doctor’s appointments.

We are having a gospel benefit sing, including silent auctions (including cake auctions), to benefit Allen and the family. The sing will feature Southern Majesty and the Singing Miracles and will be held at 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30, at Sumner Auditorium, 702 Walnut St., Sumner.

For more information, please contact Frances King or Grace Raby at (229) 777-0185.

Miranda Joiner

Sylvester