I ride to give hope to Children’s Hospital Colorado patients and families, especially those cared for in our NICU like Lucy and her parents, Lauren and Tyler.
Lucy Grace was born on April 12, 2025, at just 26 weeks gestation, weighing 650 grams and measuring 11 inches long. It was immediately clear to her care team that she was very sick—her lungs were far more underdeveloped than they “should have been” for a 26‑weeker. Lucy was diagnosed with severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) and pulmonary interstitial glycogenosis (P.I.G.), and over time, pulmonary hypertension, chronic kidney disease, and other diagnoses were added to her growing medical story.
In July, Lucy transferred to Children’s Hospital Colorado to join the SPROUT (Supporting Preemie Respiratory OUTcomes) team in the NICU. It was there that, for the first time, she began to show meaningful progress.
Just before Lucy turned five months old, she received a tracheostomy. While the trach itself did not immediately improve her respiratory status, it opened the door for Lucy to start experiencing things a typical baby might. Some of Lucy’s favorite things include watching and listening to her big brother, Lincoln, bubble baths, playing in her highchair or on her mat with toys, and chitchatting with the nurses and anyone else who passes through her room.
Through it all, Lucy has brought endless joy with her smiles, her curiosity, and her bright spirit. She continues to grow and develop each day in her own way and on her own timeline.
Lucy still has a long road ahead. She requires significant ventilator support and high FiO₂ levels, and her medical journey is far from over. Developmentally, however, Lucy is thriving. With the unwavering support of her family and the incredible care and therapies offered at Children’s Hospital Colorado, Lucy participates weekly in physical, occupational, speech, and music therapies—giving her the opportunity to learn, grow, and simply be a baby.
Lucy’s story is still being written. While the path ahead remains complex, it is also filled with possibilities made brighter by the care, research, and advocacy that give children like Lucy the chance to grow, thrive, and live a full life.
The Courage Classic gives me an opportunity to support positive outcomes and healthier futures for kids like sweet Lucy. Thanks for your support and encouragement on this journey.
Stephanie Bourque, MD
Children's Hospital Colorado Neonatologist