Bringing Up Bates star Erin Bates‘ husband, Chad Paine, shared a somber health update as prayers poured in amid her life-threatening ICU battle.
On Aug. 25, the former UPtv stars announced the birth of their seventh child, a son they named Henry Blythe.
“Henry is doing wonderful, but we would so appreciate your prayers for Erin as she continues to recover from some complications,” they shared via Instagram. “We thank the Lord for carrying us through and for the gift of this precious boy. đź’™.”
On Sept. 1, Paine returned to Instagram to thank followers for their prayers.
“It’s been a week since our miracle, Henry came into the world. He is doing well in the NICU and is our bundle of happiness,” the dad of seven wrote.
He also explained that Erin’s labor and delivery was “longer and more intense than previous births,” and that she had developed a “severe UTI” and a kidney infection, resulting in septic shock.
“She is currently still in the ICU as doctors continue to treat, diagnose, and search for answers,” he added. “We would covet your prayers for this beautiful girl who is such a light in a dark world. We are holding onto God’s promises.”
After several tense days of fans watching and waiting for an update, Paine posted on Instagram again on Thursday, Sept. 4.
“I have so many mixed emotions as I share this,” he began. “Last night, Erin suffered a lengthy and severe seizure. Up to this point, Erins infection was getting better, but we found ourselves back in a place of heartache, uncertainty, and tears.”
Additionally, Paine noted that she is still in the ICU and that doctors are running tests to help determine what caused the seizure.
“Erin is extremely weak and spent hours only half conscious,” he explained. “As her husband, it is one of the hardest things I’ve ever faced — to sit by her side and watch her struggle while being so helpless to ease her suffering. I love her more deeply than words can express, and I can’t even imagine life without my best friend.”
He concluded, “The hours have been long and heavy, and I know many hearts are aching to see her this way, along with mine. We hold on to faith that healing is coming, even in the midst of the unknown. Your prayers are felt and we are forever grateful.”
In the comments, Instagram followers once again flooded Chad and Erin with prayers and messages of hope and encouragement.
A longtime friend of the Bates family, former Counting On star Jill Duggar, wrote, “Praying for y’all!!”
Someone else shared, “So kind of you to update us when you are in the midst of such suffering ❤️. We are all praying fervently!! Lord touch this dear saint and restore her for her family and your glory , we ask in Jesus holy name by the power if his blood!”
Another fan commented, “Thank you for this update, Chad. I have been looking every day in the hope of realizing how she is doing. Please know you are not alone, we are the Body of Christ, we stand with you and Erin with expectant Hope, knowing HOPE does not disappoint! + 🙏🏻♥️.”
A different follower echoed, “Continuing to pray🙏🏻.”
Meanwhile, yet another Instagram user shared, “Praying! So so sorry to hear💔🤍🙏.”
Gil Bates, his wife Kelly JoBates and their 19 children were featured as friends of the Duggar family in several episodes of 19 Kids and Counting. They went on to appear in United Bates of America for one season on TLC before starring in Bringing Up Bates for 10 seasons on UPtv from 2015 to 2021.
Next: John David Duggar & Wife Abbie Share Major Family Update: “We’ve Been Keeping a Little Secret“
This story was originally reported by Parade on Sep 5, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
