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ARC-Angels for Ancora



Ancora was born with a rare genetic disease called ARC (Arthrogryposis-Renal Dysfunction-Cholestasis) Syndrome. Over the course of her lifetime, she has experienced a wide variety of health issues, but the most foundational problems relate to kidney and liver impairment and bleeding problems. In April she broke her leg (weak bones and failure to thrive are among her health issues), which ultimately led to multiple life-threatening infections and a three month stay in the pediatric ICU at UM Children's Hospital in Ann Arbor. Unfortunately, she continues to battle the most serious of these infections while still needing dialysis four days per week. The toll this takes on the family is emotionally and financially significant. She must make the 1.5 hour round trip drive to Ann Arbor from Toledo four days a week. In addition, Rachael (Ancora's mom) hasn't been able to work since Ancora started dialysis several years ago, putting a career in teaching on hold. Though it is difficult to discuss, Ancora's disease is also terminal and the current infection has significantly weakened her. There is nothing more the doctors can do so each day is a blessing. We're taking it day by day, enjoying the time we have left with her. Those of you that have met or care about her will be happy to know that for as long as she is with us, Ancora is surrounded by a loving family and wonderful caregivers. And her lovely, natural stubbornness has already led to her having a longer life than most children with her disease. She's been such a source of joy and fun to those around her, finding ways to laugh, create, and enjoy life even in her difficult circumstances. Even now, in her weakened state, she has the energy to boss her siblings around and still wants to go to school--she loves riding the bus! Still, the burden of such circumstances is immeasurable and over the nearly nine years of Ancora's life, many sacrifices have been made by those who love her. The primary purpose of this page is to give those in Ancora's extended circle of friends and family information about her current health and to create a space for people to offer love and support. But if also you choose to donate funds, please know that your generosity is be deeply appreciated and will go directly to Ancora and her family, to primarily cover gas, diapers, and funeral expenses. Either way, feel free to leave a note, a photo, an anecdote, or some other love in the comments section. It means a whole lot.
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Donations 

  • Anonymous
    • $50 
    • 10 yrs
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Organizer

David Coronado
Organizer

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