Support Baby Cassie's Fight Against Krabbe Disease

It is with the heaviest of hearts that I’m sharing this story on behalf of two of the most wonderful people, Rachel and Josh Dutro, who are facing a journey no parent should ever have to endure. Just a few short weeks ago, their beautiful, 7-month-old daughter, Cassie, was diagnosed with Krabbe Disease, a rare and devastating genetic disorder. Cassie’s bright smile, infectious giggles, and sweet spirit light up the lives of everyone around her, but now, she faces a battle no one could have ever anticipated.

About Cassie and Her Journey:

Cassie was born in February 2024, and she brought more joy than words can express to Rachel and Josh, who had been high school sweethearts together for 12 years and married for the last 3. They live in Richmond, Virginia, with their beloved fur babies, Mookie, Poppy, Tybee, and Salem, who all adore their baby sister.

Around 4 months of age, Cassie started showing symptoms that concerned her parents—developmental delays, muscle weakness, and other unexplained issues. Rachel and Josh tirelessly advocated for answers, and after countless appointments, tests, and sleepless nights, they received the heartbreaking diagnosis: Krabbe Disease.

Children with Krabbe Disease experience a rapid deterioration of motor skills and cognitive abilities as the disease progresses. The life expectancy for children diagnosed with infantile-onset Krabbe Disease is typically around two years. While nothing can prepare any family for such an impossible diagnosis, Rachel and Josh have shown incredible strength and resilience, facing this unimaginable journey with love, courage, and grace.

Why We’re Asking for Help:

Though there is no cure for Krabbe Disease, there are treatments aimed at managing symptoms and making Cassie as comfortable as possible. However, these treatments are costly and will require the family to travel to specialized clinics, cover ongoing medical expenses, and eventually, face heartbreaking end-of-life care.

I am starting this GoFundMe to help ease the financial burden on Rachel and Josh, allowing them to focus on spending every precious moment with their baby girl, Cassie, without the additional stress of overwhelming medical bills and other expenses.

Your donations will go directly towards:

- Medical bills and specialized treatments

- Travel costs to clinics

- End-of-life care and arrangements

- Allowing Rachel and Josh to take time off work to be by Cassie’s side every step of the way

About Krabbe Disease:

Krabbe Disease is an incredibly rare, inherited disorder that affects the body’s ability to produce myelin, the protective covering around nerve cells. Without this protection, the nervous system breaks down, and the disease progresses rapidly. Early symptoms include irritability, feeding difficulties, muscle weakness, and developmental delays, all of which Cassie has already begun to experience. As the disease progresses, children lose their ability to move, speak, and even smile. Over time, most children with this diagnosis require round-the-clock care, and the average life expectancy is just two years.

Krabbe Disease is a devastating diagnosis for any family, and it is considered 100% fatal. The impact on families like Rachel and Josh's is profound, not just emotionally but financially and logistically as well. Despite this, they remain focused on giving Cassie the most love-filled, joy-packed life they can for as long as possible.

How You Can Help:

No parent should have to endure the pain and hardship of watching their child suffer from such a cruel disease. Rachel and Josh are doing everything they can to provide Cassie with comfort and happiness in the time they have with her, but they need your help. Whether you can contribute financially or simply share this page to spread awareness, every bit of support counts. Let’s help ease their burden, if only a little, and surround them with the love, compassion, and strength they need during this difficult time.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your generosity and support. Please keep the Dutro family in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate this unimaginable journey with their sweet Cassie.