At just 11 weeks old, Ridge Watts has already shown a strength and calmness that belies his age. Born in Evergreen, Alabama, Ridge entered the world with a condition that no parent ever hopes to hear about:
Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) — a rare and painful disorder that causes blistering of the skin and mucous membranes, sometimes affecting internal organs. There is currently no cure, yet Ridge greets life with quiet resilience. He doesn’t cry, he doesn’t get cranky, and he gives his parents countless moments of awe and inspiration.
For Ridge’s family — his devoted mother Annsley Salter and father Bailey — every day is both a challenge and a testament to love. Caring for Ridge requires constant attention, with bandages needing replacement several times a day. The process is meticulous: Vaseline applied to delicate blisters, followed by layers of gauze and cloth to protect his tender skin. Each routine, while repetitive, is an act of devotion, a shield of love that safeguards Ridge’s fragile body and nurtures his indomitable spirit.
Ridge is also growing, learning, and thriving — albeit slowly. “He is taking bottles well, but he’s not gaining as much weight as we’d like,” Annsley shares. The family remains vigilant, monitoring every ounce, every movement, every sign of growth, and preparing for an important milestone this week.
This Friday, Ridge will have a significant appointment at Children’s of Alabama in Birmingham, where doctors will determine whether he will need a G-tube to support nutrition and continued growth.
The weight of uncertainty can be heavy, but the Watts family’s faith remains steadfast. They ask for prayers, not only for Ridge’s health but also for guidance, strength, and peace as they navigate this journey together. Their prayer requests are heartfelt and specific:
🦋 For Ridge’s blisters to continue healing without new occurrences, and for him to continue gaining weight and growing strong.
🦋 For remarkable progress reports from every specialist.
🦋 For God to guide the hearts, minds, and hands of Ridge’s medical team during every appointment and procedure.
🦋 For Annsley and Bailey to receive strength, peace, rest, and wisdom in their decision-making.
🦋 For safe and comfortable travel to and from UAB.
The family draws hope and encouragement from
Matthew 18:19–20, which reminds them that prayer is powerful: “Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven.” This verse is a beacon for the Watts family, affirming that even in moments of uncertainty, they are not alone.
Despite his condition, Ridge continues to be a blessing to all who know him. His patience, sweetness, and calm demeanor bring light into the lives of his parents, their extended family, and the community following his journey. Every bottle he takes, every successful bandage change, every peaceful nap is a small victory — proof of his courage and resilience.
As Ridge prepares for his upcoming doctor’s appointment, the family’s message is simple yet profound: love him, support him, and lift him in prayer. They are asking the world to join them in hope — to celebrate Ridge’s strength, pray for his health, and encourage his journey toward growth and healing.
Ridge Watts may be tiny in size, but his spirit is enormous. He teaches patience, courage, and the quiet power of resilience. His story is a reminder that even the smallest lives can carry immense impact — not through words or deeds, but through the pure strength of simply being.
💛 Let’s surround Ridge and his family with love, prayers, and hope. Let’s lift this brave little fighter in our hearts as he continues his journey, one step, one bandage, and one bottle at a time.