AUBURN - Every pregnant woman dreams of a healthy and happy baby. Yet, unfortunately, there are sometimes severe complications that could not have been predicted.

On Nov. 26, 2007, Mallory Maciag and Randy Grader, of Union Springs, awaited the arrival of their infant son, Collin Grader. But just after his birth the newborn was diagnosed with Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy and rushed to St. Joseph's Hospital in Syracuse.

Hypoxic Ischemic Encepha-lopathy is the medical term used for a type of brain damage that was caused by a lack of oxygen and a lack of blood flow to the brain.

“Collin was in the hospital until the end of January,” said his proud Grandmother, Sue Stark, while showing off photos of the infant during a benefit given in his honor at the American Legion Post 1107 in Union Spring Saturday afternoon.

“He was home for six days before being put back into the hospital,” Stark said.

Stark said that when Collin was returned to the hospital he was sent to University Hospital in Syracuse. His second stay at University hospital lasted until just this past Tuesday.

“He was kept in the hospital again because his liver and spleen were severely swollen,” she said.

Since his birth, Stark said that the family hasn't yet heard Collin cry.

“I don't know why,” she said. “He just doesn't cry. We have never even heard him cry at all.”

The proceeds from the baked ziti dinner benefit will help the family with medical and living costs. According to Stark, Collin, who is just a week past 3 months old, is just beginning to become alert for longer periods of time.

His condition will be lifelong and will require special needs therapy for the rest of his life, Stark said.

In addition to his parents, Collin also has a 4-year-old brother, Austin Lusk. “We just want to say thank you to everyone for all that they have done,” Stark said. “Their support means so much to us all.”