The Alig family’s journey is one of love, resilience and hope.
Years ago, Jenna and Bob Alig, former residents of West Liberty and active members in the community, opened their hearts and home to four girls, Emily, Latasha, Zandra and Annacee, through Adriel and Logan County Children’s Services. The girls are now ages 20, 18, 17 and 16, respectively.
Each of them brought unique challenges, but the family’s bond grew stronger with every step.
“We knew we had love to give, and these girls needed us. I honestly can’t remember a time without them,” Jenna said.
More recently, nothing could prepare them for the unexpected arrival of Hudson, their biological son, born at just 23 weeks gestation.
Weighing just over one pound, Hudson’s survival was uncertain. Yet, despite the overwhelming odds, Hudson is proving to be a fighter, defying the bleak predictions.
“Hudson is strong, and we’re going to fight for him every step of the way,” Bob and Jenna said.
Saturday, July 26, the community is coming together for the 27th annual West Liberty ice cream social to raise funds for the Alig family and baby Hudson.
The West Liberty area churches, the West Liberty Lions Club and the West Liberty Business Association host the ice cream social, which takes place from 4 to 7 p.m. at the West Liberty United Methodist Church, 202 W. Newell St., West Liberty.
The menu features chicken and noodles, sandwiches, salads, pies and homemade ice cream and the cost is by donation.
During the event, guests will have an opportunity to hear more about the Alig’s inspiring journey and baby Hudson’s progress.
Hudson’s medical journey is far from over, his parents noted. With a critically-stable diagnosis and a possible lifetime of medical needs ahead, from breathing support for his lungs and holes in his heart to surgeries for his double hernias, as well as therapies for feeding, his fight to come home continues.
“We are so grateful for the incredible care he’s receiving at Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus in their Tier III Nationwide Children’s Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), but the financial burden is heavy,” Bob said.
“It’s overwhelming, but we won’t give up. We’ve been through so much already, and we’re stronger because of it. Hudson is worth every challenge.”
For those who are unable to attend the ice cream social but would like to come alongside the family with financial support, checks made payable to “West Liberty Ice Cream Social” may be mailed to: P.O. Box 606 West Liberty, Ohio 43357.
“We are thankful for the support the community has shown to help with medical, travel and living expenses while we navigate some of the darkest days,” Bob and Jenna said.
