Grab a tissue before you read about Little Parker’s miracle story
The tale of Parker Grelecki from Georgia is undoubtedly a lovely illustration of a miracle that might actually be real, regardless of your belief in them. As his father explains, Little Parker’s journey is one of unwavering love.
When Parker was born in 2008, he faced an unimaginable challenge—hydrocephalus, a condition that caused an abnormal buildup of fluid in his brain. Unlike most newborns, whose brains typically occupy 90–95% of the skull, Parker’s brain made up only 5%.
Doctors prepared his parents for the worst, urging them to brace for an uphill battle. But from the very beginning, Parker proved he was no ordinary child. He refused to give up, defying the odds with a resilience that would inspire everyone around him.
It all started with a fateful, ticketless last-minute date night at a Braves game—one that would mark the beginning of a journey filled with hope, determination, and extraordinary strength.
“We don’t care if it’s a boy or a girl—as long as the baby is healthy.” It’s a sentiment shared by most expecting parents, but for Crysie and Ryan Grelecki of Marietta, Georgia, that simple wish was one they wouldn’t be granted.
In 2008, the couple was overjoyed to learn they were expecting. However, at the 20-week ultrasound, their excitement was shattered by devastating news.
The nurse noticed something unusual—Parker, their unborn son, had a significantly larger-than-normal head. Alarmed, she called for assistance, and soon, every doctor who examined Parker’s scans came to the same chilling conclusion: his condition was both rare and severe.
A blockage between the third and fourth ventricles of Parker’s brain was preventing spinal fluid from draining, causing a dangerous buildup. The mounting pressure forced his brain matter against his skull, leaving only 5% of his skull space for his brain—when a typical baby’s brain occupies 90–95%.
Hydrocephalus, the condition Parker was diagnosed with, affects roughly two in every 1,000 babies born in the U.S. But Parker’s case was unlike anything doctors had ever seen. His parents were told to prepare for the worst—yet Parker had a different plan.
When Crysie and Ryan Grelecki first learned of their unborn son’s condition, they were overcome with fear and uncertainty. But instead of dwelling on despair, they did what any loving parents would do—they stood by Parker with unwavering faith and unconditional love.
“Whenever fear and doubt crept into my mind, God would remind me of a song,” Crysie shared on Facebook. “God will make a way when there seems to be no way. He works in ways we cannot see. He will make a way for me.” These words became her anchor, filling her heart with strength and calm as she faced the unknown.
Parker was born via C-section in September 2008 at 39 weeks. Unlike most newborns, whose skulls contain 90–95% brain matter and only 5–10% fluid, Parker’s brain made up just 8 millimeters—while over 98% of his cranial cavity was filled with fluid.
His birth was nothing short of chaotic. Doctors were uncertain if he would survive, let alone what kind of life he might have. But one thing was clear—his parents’ love for him was boundless.
“I stayed by his side the entire time, holding his hand, rubbing his head, praying for him, and talking to him,” Ryan recalled. “This tiny, fragile baby was given to me, and I couldn’t do anything to help him. But unconditional love just pours over you.”
At just two days old, Parker underwent a critical procedure at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta to relieve the pressure in his skull and drain the excess fluid. It was a life-changing moment—one that finally allowed his brain the space it needed to grow.
Years of procedures followed. Doctors performed craniofacial surgeries to reconstruct his malformed skull. “Our goal was to open the cranium, re-expand it, and separate the bones that had fused together,” explained Dr. Joseph Williams, Chief of Plastic and Craniofacial Surgery. “Essentially, we created the space his brain needed to develop.”
Just two weeks after surgery, Parker was strong enough to go home. By four weeks, he had already started physical therapy.
In May 2014, Parker was named the “Miracle Child” by Auburn University Dance Marathon, earning him the nickname “Super Par Par the Rockstar.” And for good reason—by the time he was just 20 months old, Parker had already undergone and triumphed over seven major surgeries.
His progress astounded everyone. He took longer than most babies to hold his head up and sit on his own, but when he finally did, it was nothing short of victory. Defying expectations once again, Parker even skipped the crawling phase entirely—going straight to walking.
Through it all, the staff at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta became more than just medical professionals to the Grelecki family—they became an extension of their home. “Parker was genuinely loved by the entire team,” Crysie said. “Their rehabilitation program is world-renowned, and Parker’s recovery is just one of their many incredible success stories.”
On September 9, 2021, Crysie reflected on Parker’s journey as she celebrated a milestone that once seemed impossible—his 13th birthday. A living miracle, Parker continues to inspire everyone who hears his story—a testament to faith, resilience, and the boundless power of love.
Parker’s journey to strength and independence didn’t stop at medical therapy. In addition to his official treatments, he participated in various activities to help develop his muscles, including swimming lessons and tennis with his siblings. Each step forward was a testament to his perseverance and the unwavering support of his family.
By 2015, Parker’s inspiring story had gained widespread recognition. He was named a Children’s Miracle Network All-Star and even stood alongside Assistant City Manager Lyn Menne during a CMN benefit sale. His story continued to touch lives, including city leaders like Tony Powers, Commissioner of Decatur, who proudly shared Parker’s accomplishments in August 2016.
Looking at Parker today, it’s almost impossible to believe the struggles he once faced. With a full head of golden hair and his signature glasses, he is a far cry from the fragile newborn doctors once feared wouldn’t survive.
But Parker hasn’t just survived—he has thrived.
Against all odds, he has exceeded the expectations of nearly every medical professional who once doubted his future. According to UGA Miracle, Parker excels academically and has an exceptionally engaging personality. “After meeting him for just two minutes, it’s clear that God has blessed him with a magnetic spirit,” the organization shared.
A true miracle, Parker was born with less than 2% of his brain matter.
“As parents, we are incredibly grateful to be Parker’s mom and dad and will continue to watch him grow and fulfill the Lord’s plans for him,” Crysie and Ryan Grelecki shared.
In 2015, Parker became the Ace All-Star and an honorary member of the Ace Hardware family. His story of resilience and hope continues to inspire communities nationwide.
But at the heart of it all, Parker remains what his mother lovingly describes as a “chatterbox”—a child overflowing with love and warmth. Surrounded by his devoted family and the hospital staff who have become like a second home, Parker radiates the same affection he receives.
His siblings, Chase and Emily, have also played a crucial role in his journey. Growing up with a brother who has special needs has shaped them into compassionate advocates for others who may not always receive the recognition they deserve. Their love and unwavering support have been a source of strength—not just for Parker, but for everyone around them.
Parker’s life is more than just a story of survival—it’s a testament to faith, love, and the incredible power of never giving up.
Parker’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, and his family continues to be in awe of the miracles surrounding them. “As parents, we’ve come to realize just how incredible it is that two of our children were born without any complications. Parker’s story has created a family full of miracles,” Ryan and Crysie Grelecki shared.
As Parker approached his 14th birthday in September 2022, he had already faced and conquered challenges beyond what most people experience in a lifetime. Yet, despite everything, he continues to dream big. One of his greatest passions? Becoming a sports pundit.
It’s astonishing to think that the very brain now capable of storing an immense amount of sports knowledge was once made up of less than 2% brain matter and over three pounds of fluid. And yet, Parker has proven time and again that he is not defined by limitations. His natural talent and unwavering determination have already led him to pursue his dream, taking bold steps toward a future that once seemed impossible.
Parker’s story is one of resilience, faith, and boundless potential—a true testament to the power of miracles.
Parker’s passion for sports has already led him to a remarkable opportunity—he occasionally serves as an announcer for his local high school football team. Those who have witnessed him in action say his talent is undeniable, and his energy in the booth is nothing short of contagious.
Despite the challenges he has faced due to his early brain impairment, Parker continues to defy expectations and inspire everyone around him. His resilience, charisma, and determination make him nothing less than a true hero.
“If I had even half of his outgoing and vivacious spirit, I’d be proud,” one admirer remarked. Parker is not just a survivor—he’s a beacon of hope, proof that with heart and perseverance, anything is possible. And above all, he’s simply an incredible young man with a bright future ahead.
