Support Blake Crawford

My sister, Samantha, and her husband, Nate, were told my sweet nephew Blake is suspected to have a rare genetic metabolic disorder that has no treatment and a life expectancy of less than a year after a trip to OSHU less than 3 weeks ago. In his short 3 months of life he has undergone a myriad of tests, pokes, and hospital stays with an undefinitive diagnosis. Blake suffers from severe acid reflux, extreme stiffness and it has been found his disease has already affected his vision and brain development. His twin brother, Brandt, has not displayed any signs or symptoms.


While Samantha and Nate's insurance has covered a lot; a medical crisis of any kind is enough to deplete a family financially and emotionally. The next round of testing for Blake involves a complete genetic screen that can take 2-3 months for results. This is the next critical step in finding much needed answers and since it is not a standard test the insurance is denying the procedure. The importance of finding an answer is important for both Blake and Brandt as some of the genetic diseases can be prevented if they are diagnosed before clinical signs develop and they have been told Brandt has a 25% chance of having the same disease.  Time is so critical in getting an answer for both boys as they can't test Brandt until they know what Blake has for sure. 
   It is so hard to sit back and feel completely helpless as my sister is living through a mothers worst nightmare. I am so humbled and proud as I watch her and her husband fight through this and love and nurture their boys not knowing what each day will bring. Blake is so strong and brave every time he has to go in and he has a smile that can light up an entire room. Let us spread the word and provide support as a community to the Crawford family by donating to help get this test started sooner.