To all,

We have just been made aware of tragic turn of events for a local young couple expecting their

first baby in October.  In a routine prenatal examination, Fenwick Island Police Corporal Stephen

Lowe and his wife Amanda were informed that their baby would be born with a severe congenital

heart defect known as “Transposition of the Great Arteries.”  With this condition, the child’s aorta

and pulmonary arteries are switched and must be corrected.  They have also been informed that

the heart has a narrowing of one of the arteries which too must be corrected. 

Hoping that this diagnosis was wrong, they consulted with a group of physicians who are

affiliated with the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.  Unfortunately the original diagnosis was

confirmed.  But, the good news is that they were

told that that these issues are today treatable and

the prognosis for the baby is very positive.

Stephen has medical insurance coverage through

the Fenwick Island Police Department, but the

delivery, which will take place at Children’s Hospital

of Philadelphia and required subsequent surgeries

and follow-up appointments, will entail large out of

pocket expenses for this family (travel, extended

stay lodging, meals, parking, etc.)  Plus, as you can

imagine, significant out of pocket expenses for the

co-pays for all of the specialists consulted and for

the medical costs not covered by insurance.

Fenwick Island’s Police Chief William Boyden describes his small department as being “family.” 

So, it was not surprising to learn that they have arranged for and are soliciting funds for a “Baby

Lowe Account” that has been set up at the PNC Bank, located at 1107 Coastal Highway, Fenwick

Island, DE 19944.  Donations to the Lowe family can be made at any PNC bank, simply by noting

it is for the “Baby Lowe Account.”

A contribution can also be made by a credit card payment at

the web based ‘GoFundMe’ site… found by clicking here.  While

this option is more convenient, the drawback to this form of

contribution is both a credit card and an administration fee is

deducted from the amount that will be available to cover the

family’s expenses.

Some background on the Lowes:

Stephen is a native Delawarean, who served eight years in the

U.S. Air Force.  His wife, Amanda was originally from

Pennsylvania, served in the U.S. Navy and was assigned to an

aircraft carrier for much of her time serving our country.  Both

served in a combat zone in the Gulf War.

They have been married for just a year and currently reside in

Millsboro.  Stephen served on the Millsboro Police force until a medical issue forced his

resignation.  He has been with the Fenwick Island Police Department for the past two years and

according to Chief Boydon, "is an outstanding officer who represents his town well.”  Amanda has

been studying to become a nurse… a career path that by necessity must now be placed on hold.

What Can You Do?

One of the things my wife Sharon and I most love about living in this area is the small town

atmosphere and the kind and generous people who live here. 

By consensus of the FILC Board, the Fenwick Island Lions Club will initially contribute $1,000 for

the benefit of this deserving family. 

We ask that you consider helping this young couple in any way you can.  Also, please consider

passing this message along to associations and/or clubs that you are affiliated with, as well as to

your friends and neighbors. You may also wish to post this on social media.

My thanks for your consideration,

Bruce