Children’s Miracle Network: Meet Bowen Hohensee

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (KY3) - Bowen Hohensee crosses the finish line with a laugh, whether he wins or loses the game.

The 2-year-old has already survived a much more challenging journey than most people face in decades.

“He’s been through more in two years than people go through in 20,” said Ashton Hohensee, Bowen’s mother.

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At first glance, Bowen appears like any typical toddler. He fidgets, loves monster trucks and Spider-Man, and adores his sisters. But his path to this point required extensive medical intervention and family determination.

Bowen’s medical adventure began early. By 6 weeks old, he had spent 26 days in the NICU. Even after arriving home, his mother sensed something wasn’t right.

“He had issues where he would constantly vomit and spit up, and it didn’t matter what formula, what anything that went in basically came back out,” Ashton Hohensee said.

Year-long medical mystery

Bowen became a medical mystery for an entire year. He endured constant testing, procedures and examinations. The family spent another two weeks in the hospital and sought a second opinion before finding answers.

“He had his first endoscopy in December of 2023. And, within a week, we had results and answers, finally,” Ashton Hohensee said.

The diagnosis revealed Bowen has eosinophilic esophagitis, known as EOE.

“He has a condition called EOE, which stands for eosinophilic esophagitis. Which is just a big fancy word for saying basically he has like they compare it to having like eczema in the esophagus,” Ashton Hohensee said.

Managing the condition

Bowen now follows a dairy-free diet and takes medication. He requires regular doctor appointments and testing to monitor his esophagus. The condition doesn’t disappear over time.

“A lot of people don’t understand that just because they may look normal on the outside does not mean that they don’t struggle,” Ashton Hohensee said.

Despite the challenges, Bowen has made remarkable progress.

“For him to be where he’s at is amazing,” his mother said.

Children’s Miracle Network support

The Hohensee family credits Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals with providing crucial support throughout their journey. Bowen will serve as an ambassador for the organization next year.

“For us, Children’s Miracle Network has been such a lifesaver in so many ways. Not just financially, but the community that they provide. And just being able to help any kids in any medical situation to have that extra support is just wonderful,” Ashton Hohensee said.

Now approaching his third birthday, Bowen continues to thrive while managing his condition with the ongoing support of his medical team and Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

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