Supporting William’s Courage: Medical Needs Fundraiser

Hello,

My name is Theresa, and I have created this GoFundMe to help raise funds for William’s long-term medical needs.

I have worked alongside his mother for years, through all the ups and downs, and have had to witness William’s health deteriorate. Over the last two years, he has been diagnosed with scoliosis, myasthenia gravis, ARFID, and sleep-disordered breathing. William was born 16 years ago with an incredibly rare skin condition called Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) and, despite the diagnosis, was thriving. However, the new diagnoses, in addition to EB, have taken a toll on William and his family—emotionally, physically, and financially.

William has spent the better part of the last year as an inpatient at McMaster Children’s Hospital. He has missed out on school, birthdays, holidays, the passing of friends, and his baby brother growing up. Within the last few months, things have become even more challenging. He had a stay in the PICU, where he almost didn’t make it, and the ordeal has taken a significant toll on his body.

Life for William and his family has changed. He is now home but requires PSW support, nursing care, and specialized equipment. Unfortunately, his mother—a single mom of two children, aged 16 and 2—works as much as she can while caring for both boys and continuing her education to create a better life for them. Despite her efforts, she is falling short of the financial resources needed to ensure William has everything required to remain at home.

William has faced all of these challenges head-on and is fighting to thrive. He is an amazingly smart young man and an incredible big brother.

The funds raised will allow William’s mom to purchase much-needed medical supplies, including parts for machines he already has, such as a cough assist and BiPAP, and new equipment like enteral feeding supplies (pump and accessories), a Rifton R130 adaptive tricycle, and motorized wheels (with the goal of obtaining an electric wheelchair in the future). The funds will also cover unexpected expenses as they arise.

Additionally, the money will help with:

- Groceries (he requires 4,200+ calories per day, including 2,500 calories through NG tube feeds).

- Clothing (he needs frequent replacements due to rapid weight changes and wound care).

- Medications not covered by any medical plan.

Please take a moment to consider helping me support William as he fights to thrive and relieve some of the financial pressure on his mom.

If you are unable to donate, please share this fundraiser so others may help.