Hello Austin's A-Team! After taking a year long break, we are eager to get back to raising funds, support, and awareness for our superhero, Austin. We invite all of you to our annual fundraising event on Sunday, September 28th from 12-3pm at All Saints Cathedral Picnic Grove located at 9201 W. Higgins Ave., Chicago. The event is free attend, family friendly, and guaranteed to be a lot of fun! Join us for amazing raffles, tacos, entertainment, face painting, bounce houses and MORE!

Austin (aka AJ) is a 6 year-old first grader who was born with a rare neurological disease called Pontocerebellar Hypoplasia type 6 (PCH-6). This disease is so rare that there are only 40 diagnosed cases worldwide and limited research and funding exist to support his condition. PCH-6 causes a wide range of challenges for Austin, including seizures, limited physical independence, being non-verbal, and the need to receive all of his nutrition, hydration, and medication through a g-tube.

Because of Austin’s complex medical needs, a full-time nurse is needed to help his family manage his ever-changing and challenging day-to-day needs. Funds raised through Austin’s A-Team will go directly to AJ’s family to help pay for the cost of full-time nursing care, as well as equipment, medication, home renovations, and other costs associated with his care and progress. This year we are specifically raising funds for a lift to safely transfer him, as well as expenses for a medication that AJ was previously receiving as a part of a drug trial that unfortunately ended. AJ and his family have to travel to Ohio for appointments related to this medication and all expenses (travel, doctor’s appointments, and the drug itself) are now out of pocket.

Austin also requires multiple therapy appointments each week and regular trips to Lurie Children’s Hospital and Shirley Ryan Ability Lab to monitor his progress and identify the tools and supports to help him develop.

AJ always perseveres when things get difficult and is motivated to do new things. He loves school, watching Bluey, anything to do with his amazing big brother Colin, and going for walks in his wheelchair. Austin smiles every day, and his positive energy is contagious!