After a healthy pregnancy, Bentley was unexpectedly born with a numerous health issues on August 15, 2019. He spent the first 8 months of his life in the hospital. He was intubated immediately after birth and taken to the NICU in respiratory distress. He received a tracheotomy and gastrostomy tube (gtube) just shy of 2 months old. He was on a ventilator 24/7 and fed solely through his gtube his whole life. 

During the next six months, Bentley and his family never left the hospital. His parents were trained on how to care for him. His weight and health issues continued to be a concern. Bentley was diagnosed with cerebral palsy and was a warrior who fought through it. 

Bentley was in and out of the hospital his entire life. He finally came home for the first time after 209 days. However, it was short lived. Two days later, he went right back with a high fever. When he wasn’t admitted, Bentley was still at the hospital nearly every day for appointments. He and his family traveled between three hospitals during his life – Cincinnati Childrens, Nationwide Children’s, and Dayton Childrens – where he spent a majority of his time. 

Bentley was loved dearly by so many staff in different departments. He was very well known not only because of his frequent trips, but also because he was so sweet and easy to fall in love with. He was especially loved by the Transitional Care Unit (TCU) where he was always admitted to. He loved the TCU staff just as much – like family. It was his home away from home.

Bentley suddenly and unexpectedly left us in May 2021. After only 21 months on earth, he touched the hearts of so many, and made such a huge impact without ever saying a word. His family wants to honor him and his legacy through Bentley’s Buddies.