Lionhearted Fund

LEO'S STORY



Leo Russell Babler, son of Ryan (RFHS class of 2002) and Lewann Babler (maiden name Ihrke, SCC class of 2003) was born 5/5/14. After a completely healthy pregnancy, it was a shock when Leo spent his first month of life in the St. Paul Children's Hospital NICU, due to the diagnosis of an extremely rare genetic disorder. Leo's disorder is a form of dwarfism, Rhizomelic Chondrodysplasia Punctata, and said to be a lethal form of skeletal dysplasia. RCDP occurs in fewer than 1 in 100,000 births, with less than 100 known cases worldwide. Characteristics of RCDP can include: shortened humeri and femur bones (upper arms and legs), cataracts, growth deficiency, mental deficiency, seizures, calcium deposits in joints, aspiration and joint stiffness. Leo has had every test imaginable performed - fortunately, his brain, heart, lungs and kidneys look great.  He has had six surgeries in his short life with likely more to come. While his doctors anticipate a life of challeges, Leo has been surprising them left and right with great strides! Each child and each case of RCDP is completely unique, making a doom and gloom attitude unacceptable for his parents. If you know Ryan and Lewann, you are well aware of their love for life, positive outlook and persistently driven work ethic. Ryan and Lewann are doing all that they can to encourage Leo to have the best life possible at his highest potential.  

All financial support will be used toward Leo's current medical bills and continued care, including alternative therapies that have been proving to be effective in many ways. Any donation will be met with whole-hearted gratitude from Leo and his family.​