When Eric and LeAnne Stadler first held Easton Matthew in their arms, they faced their hardest challenge yet. Easton, a tiny two-month-old baby, suffered from shaken baby syndrome—a devastating injury caused by neglect and abuse from his biological parents, who refused to feed him.
Before coming to the Stadlers, Easton was nearly blue from starvation, weighed just over seven pounds, and had been left in filthy conditions. His frail body had no fat, his large head showed visible sutures, and his weak muscles prevented him from holding up his head. The visiting nurse’s intervention saved his life, leading authorities to remove Easton from neglectful care.
Eric and LeAnne started feeding Easton around the clock with tiny amounts of formula, gradually helping him gain weight. His fragile body, however, showed severe damage from brain trauma and shaken baby syndrome. Over time, Easton was diagnosed with hypotonic cerebral palsy and other disabilities. Despite this, he continues to fight every day with amazing strength and joy.
After much legal struggle and care, Easton became the Stadlers’ permanent son, a blessing they cherish deeply. Their story is a powerful testament to love, resilience, and the healing power of dedicated foster parents.
