Support Natalie & Family

Hello, my name is Hannah. I am setting up this fundraiser for a friend…

You know how in life every once in a while you come across a gem of a person? Someone that just leaves a lasting impact on your heart and brings a smile to your face whenever you think of them? Well, that person is Natalie!

Years ago I got the pleasure of getting to know and hanging out with Natalie. Most days we drove around singing the muppet movie soundtrack by heart at the top of our lungs, taking walks and talking about life and school, or enjoying a day at the park. Natalie is sunshine with a little sass and has the best laugh of anyone I know. She is also a kidney transplant recipient and therefore also a superhero in my book.

Natalie has Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS) which is a genetic condition that impacts multiple body systems. It is classically defined by six features. Patients with BBS can experience problems with obesity, specifically with fat deposition along the abdomen. They often also suffer from intellectual impairments. Commonly, the kidneys, eyes and function of the genitalia will be compromised. People with BBS may also be born with an extra digit on the hands. The severity of BBS varies greatly even among individuals within the same family.

Recently Natalie has become ill and was in and out of the hospital a couple times. After very extensive testing, meds, and scans it has been determined that she now has cancer. The family is still getting details as to the treatment plan and prognosis. This is a very special family that has already suffered the unspeakable loss of two daughters: Gloria and Abigail (Abby) due to BBS and now seeing Natalie in this condition and facing cancer is heartbreaking. But Natalie is a force to be reckoned with - and we will be there to support her in her battle against cancer.

I am setting up this account in hopes to bring awareness, ask for prayer, and ask for financial assistance for the family if you are able. They have a long road ahead, and while tending to Natalie’s needs Beth is unable to work and is staying at the hospital, traveling back and forth to the house, food, gas, bills… expenses can start piling up quick when really all the family wants to focus on is on their wonderful daughter and supporting her. So if you can and feel so led, please contribute - all funds raised will go directly to the family to help support them financially during this journey.

Thank you for your time, for your prayers, and for contributing!