Support Declan's Journey from Rolling to Running

Hello everyone, my name is Alicia and the beautiful boy in these pictures is my nephew Declan. He is a funny, bright, and creative 7 year old boy. Declan loves to make videos, play board games and cards, toss water balloons, laugh with his friends, and hang out with his family. He lives at home with his parents, Zachary and Briana, and his puppy Andy Grace. Thank you so much for taking the time to read Declan’s story.

In January of this year, Declan began having a little trouble walking. At first, doctors didn’t think it was anything serious, however, his symptoms worsened prompting a visit to the Emergency Room at the University of Virginia Hospital. During this visit, Declan was diagnosed with Guillain Barre Syndrome or Acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (AIDP). GBS is an autoimmune disease that affects the coating around the nerves in your body causing muscle weakness, fatigue, pain, and paralysis. Guillain Barre is rare, even more so in children. Declan was in the hospital for 5 days and received 4 rounds of IVIG, which is a treatment for GBS, but unfortunately not a cure.

Recovery time for many patients with GBS ranges from 6 months to 2 years. At this time, there is no way to know the length of his recovery or if there will be any lasting symptoms. Right now, Declan cannot walk unaided. He uses a wheelchair to get around and experiences severe pain at times. His arms and hands were not as affected, however, they are much weaker than before. He goes to therapy several times a week to help strengthen his body and relearn the basics. Donations will go towards his medical bills, therapy costs, adaptive equipment to help make day to day tasks easier, and physical and occupational resources/materials for him to use at home. Any additional funds will be used to create care packages for others who are going through a difficult time.

Declan has continued to be strong and courageous during this difficult time in his life. He still smiles and jokes daily. He loves to show off the progress he has made and set his own goals (one of which is to be a magician). Any/All donations are so very appreciated. If you cannot donate at this time, please share Declan’s story with others, it really means a lot to our family.