Hailey’s Journey: A Story of Strength, Courage, and Hope

Meet Hailey Wetmore, a brave 3-year-old from Newington, Connecticut, who has been defying the odds since the day she was born. Diagnosed with a rare medical condition known as cloacal exstrophy (OEIS), Hailey’s life has been anything but ordinary. This condition affects multiple systems of the body, including the gastrointestinal, renal, urinary, and reproductive systems, as well as her spine and pelvic bone structure. But despite the challenging diagnosis, Hailey’s story is one of incredible resilience and love.

A Rough Start and Unwavering Hope

When Kyra and Justin Wetmore, Hailey’s parents, were told that their daughter might never walk and that her future was uncertain, it could have broken their spirits. However, this incredible couple, both of whom are first responders, refused to accept this grim prognosis. They searched tirelessly for the best doctors in the country, eventually finding hope in the medical team at Boston Children’s Hospital. This team has been Hailey’s caregivers from the moment she was born, and they have given her and her family the strength to believe in a brighter future.

Already, Hailey has undergone multiple surgeries, but her main surgery, which will focus on the full reconstruction of her systems, is scheduled for January 2026. This surgery is crucial, and her parents, who are both first responders, will be staying in Boston with Hailey for an anticipated eight-week period. Despite the challenging road ahead, the Wetmore family’s faith, support, and love for Hailey remain unshaken.

Hailey’s Strength: Walking, Running, Dancing, and More

Despite what doctors initially said, Hailey has proven time and time again that she is stronger than anyone could have imagined. This 3 year old little girl is already walking, running, dancing, and riding a bike, just like any other child her age. Hailey’s determination is nothing short of remarkable, and she is living proof that with love, faith, and perseverance, even the greatest challenges can be overcome.

Her progress has left doctors and those who have followed her journey in awe. Hailey has not only survived but thrived after surgeries, and she is now a typical, energetic, happy 3-year-old who loves life and all the adventures that come with it.

The “Hope for Hailey” Movement

One of the most heartwarming aspects of Hailey’s journey is the incredible support she has received from people near and far. It all started with a simple idea from her mom, Kyra, who is an EMT with Rocky Hill, and her dad, Justin, a Milford firefighter. Hailey has always been fascinated by Paw Patrol, and when she received two service patches from her dad, she began playing with them every day. This sparked an idea—Kyra and Justin decided to create a Facebook group called “Hope for Hailey,” with the goal of collecting service patches from first responders, police officers, EMTs, and military personnel.

The response has been overwhelming. Hailey has received thousands of patches from all over the country and even internationally, including from Germany, Japan, and Iceland. Hailey has even affectionately called the patches “Daddy’s Tattoos,” and she plans to decorate her hospital room with them, making her upcoming hospital stay a little brighter. The outpouring of love and support from first responders has been a testament to the power of community, and it’s clear that Hailey has touched the hearts of many.

A Special Photo Session for a Special Girl

As a photographer who has had the honor of documenting Hailey’s life, I’ve had the privilege of watching her grow and thrive. I first met Kyra and Justin when Hailey was about a month old, and I was able to capture her first moments. Over the years, it has been nothing short of a privilege to watch Hailey grow into the determined and spirited young girl she is today.

When I heard that Hailey was collecting patches for her hospital room, I knew I had to do something special. Along with Officers Bodell and Masella, we organized a photo session to help Hailey and her family celebrate the support they’ve received from first responders around the world. The session was even more meaningful with the addition of the officers’ canines, John and Bear, making it a truly memorable day for Hailey. It was an honor to document such a special moment in Hailey’s journey.

Looking to the Future

As Hailey’s surgery approaches, her parents continue to stay positive and hopeful. The road ahead will be challenging, but they are confident in the care Hailey will receive at Boston Children’s Hospital and the strength that Hailey has shown throughout her life. I’ve promised Kyra that I’ll be there to document the next chapter of Hailey’s journey, and I look forward to capturing even more milestones in the future.

Hailey’s story is one of incredible strength, perseverance, and love. She is a shining example of what can be accomplished when a community comes together to support someone in need. Her fight is far from over, but with the love and support of her family, friends, and the first responder community, Hailey is ready to take on whatever comes next.

To follow Hailey’s journey and learn more about her story, you can visit her GoFundMe page here or visit her Facebook page here.

No one fights alone. Hailey, we all stand with you.