Chet Oliver Smith was born in late May, but remains in the hospital due to a rare combination of two conditions. He came into the world without eyes or nostrils.
Chet Oliver Smith was born in late May, but remains in the hospital due to a rare combination of two conditions. He came into the world without eyes or nostrils.
His mother, Samantha, said the delivery was quick and easy, but soon after challenges started to present.
The first issue doctors noticed was that the baby boy was having trouble breathing.
Further examination revealed that he had a blockage in his nasal passageway. It was significant enough for doctors to declare that the child was without nostrils.
Shortly after, it was discovered that the child hadn’t developed eyes either.
To ease Chet’s breathing struggles, surgeons have already performed 4 surgeries.
His eyes, however, are something medical procedures can’t fix and his blindness is considered permanent.
Both his parents and the community have put forth extraordinary efforts to make sure that Chet is comfortable, cared for, and continues to thrive.
Said Kyle Smith, Chet’s father, "We've had people from coast-to-coast helping us out, and we really want to thank everybody for that, because I don't know where we would be without it."
The Smiths say they’ve also been encouraged by the strength their baby has shown.
