Please help Tamryn and his Family make their goal!

Tamryn and his Family have had a very rough year.

It started with a few stumbles and falls, some odd tap dance motions when touched, then toe walking, progressing to a staggering gait. Then, it was as if his backbone had turned to mush. He couldn’t hold a sitting or standing position or take more than two steps without falling. At first, they called this Ataxia. He has seen four neurologists and had countless tests, including genetics, but still no diagnosis. The movement disorders neurologist says his movements are now dystonic, which means that his muscles uncontrollably twist in sometimes painful contractions.

Watching him slowly deteriorate has been so gut-wrenching to his family and friends. At first, he remained optimistic and kept his upbeat spirit going, but now we see him overcome by frustration, sadness, and pain. His parents feel every bit of his discomfort with him, like when he first discovered he couldn’t ride his bike or when he looks so longingly at his buddies playing in the park after one of our homeschool activities. Everyone tries to keep him involved so that he doesn’t feel isolated, but we see him being left behind in the activities he once so joyously participated in. His friends are sweet and try to include him, yet he hangs back, knowing his limitations, while Mom hides her tears to try and stay strong for him.

Tamryn's parents are also two of this planet's most amazing human beings! After raising three children of their own they adopted not only Tamryn but all 5 of his older siblings, all of whom have a medical condition of some sort (though not quite as severe as Tamryn). Their generosity and unconditional love have changed their children's lives for the better and, in some cases, even saved their lives from the unimaginable.

Now it appears likely that he may have a chronic condition similar to Muscular Dystrophy, but the actual diagnosis is still undetermined. This, alone, has had a significant financial impact involving car trips to hospitals with co-pays, hotel nights, and meals on the road. At this point, a wheelchair is required; and, because he can no longer navigate steps and stairs in the house, there are some immediate housing needs as well.

First, is the conversion of their vehicle to make it wheelchair accessible. A quick internet search indicates this could cost anywhere between $15,000 - $42,000 for the ramp and lift. Simultaneously, they need to purchase building materials to convert a downstairs space into a small bedroom adjacent to the wheelchair ramp the Dad is building now. The materials for the ramp were around $1,500. With Dad doing all the labor himself, or event with donated labor, the cost of materials for the renovation of the house is also expected to be quite costly.

Please understand, this family is NOT asking for help! However, as their friends, it is abundantly clear to us that they are in great need. We hope you’ll consider making a financial contribution to help alleviate the additional stress of this situation. Any amount is helpful and appreciated.

Thank you!!