Childrens Hemiplegia and Stroke Association

We are the Merrell Family; our son Tayden was diagnosed with Right Spastic Hemiplegia Cerebral Palsy at the age of 2 years old. The medical care system had already failed us from the beginning. With failed hearing tests at birth, jaundice or even the countless times, we expressed our concerns at appointments. Due to a spasm incident, we were referred for therapy which is how we met our guardian angels.

Because of our strong faith in God, we met an Occupational therapist and clinic therapy director that fought for us to get the proper medical diagnosis and aligned their network of professionals for a better treatment plan. Our families, church, and friends kept us encouraged during the difficult times.

We were told all the challenges and obstacles that our son would not achieve or be limited to. 

Today our son has navigated general studies in school, plays baseball, soccer and gains independence tasks. But self-identity has been a challenge at times. 

Navigating un-chartered waters, we were introduced to an organization by the name of CHASA (Children Hemplegia and Stroke Association) that opened a door to families across the world who have faced the same or similar challenges. It allowed us to receive guidance, spiritually and emotionally, and show Tayden there are other children like him. He is not alone!

HIS FIGHT IS OUR FIGHT!

For the past 5 years we have participated raising funds for CHASA to continue supporting families like mine!

Your support has the power to change lives. And by participating in the CHASA fundraising campaign, you can make a greater impact than ever before. It’s easy. It’s fast. And most of all, it gives you the chance to be part of the CHASA Team. Help us help the kids.

Want to join me in making a difference? I'm raising money to benefit Children's Hemiplegia and Stroke Association, and any donation will help make an impact.

Children's Hemiplegia and Stroke Association (CHASA) is dedicated to improving the lives of children and families affected by pediatric stroke or other conditions which result in hemiparesis or hemiplegic cerebral palsy.

Julianna Lynne Preciado came into this world at 37 weeks 1 day gestation with a very rough start. Being placed on oxygen, severe Hypoglycemia, and only weighing 4lbs. 6ozs. she was rushed to the NICU. There, it was found that she had a stroke with 2 brain bleeds. One bleed was not as severe, while the one on her right side was a grade 4, which is the most severe. This damage to the right side of her brain affects the left side of her body causing weakness, also known as Hemiplegia. Julianna has been diagnosed with left Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy. Hemiplegia, Hemiparesis, or Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy are the results of a brain injury and children with brain injuries may have multiple disabilities and medical concerns. Each child is unique. One child may have a variety of Hemiplegia-related differences while another child may have no related medical issues. Children’s Hemiplegia and Stroke Association (CHASA) http://chasa.org/ is a non-profit organization which provides help and support for children to become successful independent adults. CHASA helps by providing educational information, opportunities for online and local support, support and education for children through the Kandu mascot initiative, and help with financial needs through the Orthotic Grant Program, and educational, retreat, and Athletic Scholarships.

Thanks in advance for your contribution to this cause that means so much to me.