Miracle for Maddie❤️

My name is Maddie Meadows and I could use your help. Four years ago, I was diagnosed with juvenile arthritis (short for Polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis) and Crohn’s disease. My joints hurt a lot and often, and affect my ability to walk, write and live a normal life. For a while, I could not walk and had to use a walker.  In addition to these two big diseases, I have several other challenges. These include:  scalp psoriasis, chronic eczema, and severe scoliosis (60+ degree curve).  All of these diseases, and the related therapies and medications have taken a toll on me. I am not able to absorb nutrition to grow and be strong (it’s called “failure to thrive”). I get lots of infections, too.  Right now, I am 16 years old, 4’10” and I weigh 67 pounds. People can't believe I am 16 years old and often think I am much younger.  People sometimes  don't believe I am 16, and often act like I am not telling the truth, or sometimes even make fun of my size.   When things like this happen, I try to just sing that Taylor Swift song in my head "Shake It Off"! 

It takes more effort, energy, and positive thoughts for me to get through the day than it does for many kids. My parents say I am strong, and I know I am brave, but it is also very hard to live with these problems .

Recently, I was very sick with several infections, and had to be in the hospital for three weeks.  That was my third hospital stay and fourth emergency room visit in 6 weeks.   As a result, I have lost ground on growing and fighting my illnesses, and I have not been able to start my junior year (I am working on school at home with a tutor ). I miss my friends. One thing that is super tough for me,  is that I don’t know anyone else who deals with the kinds of things I do. This can make me feel alone.  I try to focus on the good things though because I can also sometimes feel very lucky, because I do have friends and family who care for me, love me for who I am, and help me do the things I need to do to feel and get better.

A little about me as just “Maddie”, the teeneager and not the patient.  I love animals (especially dogs), action and sci fi movies (Star Wars, Iron Man, the Avengers and Mission Impossible), the Disney channel, being in the band (I play the flute and participate as much as I can, even though I am not able to march), and my family. I have a little sister, Peyton, and a dog named Chloe.  It is important to me to be kind because that what God teaches us.  My friends and family say I am sweet and talkative.  My mom and dad both work, and my dad is a teacher at my high school.  My friends tell me that I am fun and funny too. I like to think that even though I am small in size, I am very very strong.

Living with multiple chronic conditions is hard and the financial part has been tough for my family. In short, I need to raise at least $25,000 to help me get the care I need to live a stronger and more healthy life.

I am hoping you can help my family and me to best manage my care and the related costs. I want to stay in my home of 9 years , as I am close with my neighbors who are some of my best friends.  I want to go to Mayo Clinic and I want to be able to see doctors who can provide information and treatment to help me live a full life. I want to do therapies and get the best nutrition  that helps me get stronger and grow.  I want to go to college someday. I want to work with animals and have a family. I want to get better and be able to travel and see the world.   I want to dance outside with my neighbor friends.  I could use your help to do this. 

Thank you so very much!! 

Specifically, I could use help to fund the following items related to my challenges:
a) “Uncovered” medical equipment and expenses, such as:
a. Specific formulas for my nightly feedings that come through my g – tube
b. Soft brace for scoliosis  and eventually  back surgery (which for me  can be pretty complicated with my health challenges)
c. Pharmacy co-pays and organic supplements  
d. Physical therapy, acupuncture, counseling & chiropractor copays and visits above max of insurance coverage.
e. Hospital stay copays
f) Elliptical machine for optimal PT (PT is at home)
g) Higher food bills for special dietary needs;
h) Comprehensive care assessment and key specialists:
             a. Trips to Houston to see specialists, 2-3 days at a time, apx every other month
              b. Trip to Mayo for Maddie, Elise(mom) and one supporter/helper.
i) Regular massage for me to help with my back pain and arthritis pain
j) Nutritionist/ coach for me to teach me  how to eat better for health and growth , specific to my conditions -
k) 2x teeth cleanings beyond 2x per year, as my gums are often infected and have  “weakened” due to the Crohn’s
l) Mattress that adjusts and is comfortable and supportive for my  back issues and best tube feeding position

Thank you !  Love,
Maddie