Manuel Michael Rodriguez was born into this world on August 7, 2008 and went on to be with the Lord a few hours later. He was born with some undetermined medical challenges that claimed his life and sent him home. We found out we were going to be parents in February and we were very excited. The first few doctors appointments went well, nothing was out of the ordinary. We had fun telling our family about the upcoming arrival and looking forward to the ultrasound when we would find out if we would be having a boy or a girl. The beginning of the ultrasound was great as daddy found out that he would be blessed with his "much anticipated first boy.” However, not long after, things began to take a nervous tone when the doctors became concerned at some potential irregularities. These irregularities became complications that led to months of frequent and regular ultrasounds at Akron Children's in the months leading up to his birth. A sudden turn of events at 30 weeks led to an emergency c-section where Manny was brought into the world, a small, handsome, wonderful little man. However, the joy of his arrival would not last for long. Due to Manny’s many health issues, it became apparent that our only option was to hold, love and hug our wonderful little guy until he would go home to rest. Daddy was the champion of the day as all of the responsibility fell on him to make decisions, plans, etc. for Manny since Mommy was still under anesthesia due to the emergency c-section. Not only did he officially become Manny’s father that day, he became his hero as he poured ALL of himself into the life of his precious, 4 pound little boy so that his short life would be the best he could be given. Without a doubt, Manny knew he was loved as he lived his whole life surrounded by, not only his parents, but many other family members who held him, hugged and kissed him and told him how much they loved him. In the final moments before he breathed his last, when daddy and mommy said, "I love you”, Manny opened his eyes, breathed a deep breath, and shortly after, left us, but joined his Heavenly Father. He only knew love on Earth and is now in a more perfect love in Heaven. We created this fund at Akron Children’s Hospital because it is our desire to see him forever remembered for the powerful effect he had on us, his grandparents, his family, and everyone who knew him in that short time by being used to advocate for patient safety and physician education. We pray that this fund will impact the lives of other children and their families as much as Manny has greatly impacted ours.
