Arie Grace
💗 The Story of Arie — A Life of Love, Strength & Joy
On March 8, 2013, Arie joined the Oler family, instantly infusing the crew
with her vibrant sass and unmistakable sparkle. From the beginning, she
brought a unique flair not only to her family but also to the
medical world.
Diagnosed with congenital CMV (cytomegalovirus) and secondary spastic
quad cerebral palsy, along with a multitude of other complex conditions, Arie
faced an uphill battle with grace and grit. Her first two years of life included
56 nights in the hospital due to feeding intolerance and various
gastrointestinal challenges. At 18 months, she received a G-tube to support
her nutrition, and from ages 3 to 5, Arie thrived.
In September 2020, she was admitted to Mercy Hospital to begin treatment
with TPN and lipids, a major step in her medical journey. Always seeking the
best for Arie, her family consulted with specialists at Colorado Children’s
Hospital, who confirmed her diagnosis of Small Bowel Dysmotility and aligned with the treatment plan created by her St. Louis team. Though the long-term use of TPN and lipids came with risks, Arie faced several hospitalizations from bacterial infections with her characteristic strength. In November 2022, her port was removed after a severe infection. Due to damage to her blood vessels, a
new one could not be placed.
💕 Cherished Moments
December 2022 and January 2023 were filled with treasured family memories. Arie spent time watching
her brother and sister play basketball, having her nails painted, snuggling up for family movie nights, and
simply being home, surrounded by her favorite people.
In early February, Arie was admitted for what would be her final stay. Even then, she made the most of each moment — coloring, confidently directing everyone with her famous pointer finger, playing hide and seek, going on walks with Mom and Dad, hosting slumber parties, and enjoying countless visits from family, friends, and her beloved pup, Oakley.
💗 A Life That Changed the World
On February 14, 2023 — a day dedicated to love — Arie went home to be with Jesus. She was the most inclusive person you could ever meet, radiating joy, compassion, and warmth wherever she went. Her incredible ability to love deeply and wholeheartedly inspired the creation of the Love Like Arie Memorial Foundation, established to carry on her legacy and support families walking through similar journeys.
To know Arie is to love Arie. Love Like Arie.
Let’s Love Like Arie — today and every day.
