ADA Home 4 SuperHeroes

What would you do if you had three disabled children, whose life expectancy is only in their mid to late teens? This is exactly what the Christensen family is facing. Larry and JaNae Christensen are working to support their 4 boys and Larry's disabled mother. Rylik, being 13 years old, is the oldest of the brothers followed by Ethan (12), Trinton (10), Preston (8). In 2007, their family was hit with devastating news, Rylik was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). DMD is a very aggressive genetic neuromuscular disease. As this disease progresses, it causes the muscles to break down and the inability to develop new muscular tissue. By the time Rylik was 10 he was permanently wheelchair bound. He is slowly losing motor control in his hands as well as the ability to lift his arms. Ultimately this disease will weaken his heart and lungs to the point it will cost him his life. Having a child diagnosed with DMD is a devastating and life altering event for any family. However, for the Christensen’s, it did not end there. After additional testing, it was determined that Rylik’s two youngest brothers, Trinton and Preston, also have DMD.  For Larry and JaNae, learning that three of their sons suffer from this horrible genetic disorder was unimaginable. The progression of this disease is different for each of the boys. Trinton and Preston’s health is deteriorating at a quicker rate than that of their brother Rylik. This has left Ethan to take on the role as their “Big Brother" which he does admirably.  Rylik is now no longer able to maintain personal hygiene without the help of his parents. As for Trinton and Preston they are unable to walk very far, and have great difficulty getting up from the ground when they fall. As Larry and JaNae care for the growing needs of their family, it is becomes very apparent that their current home is unsuitable for their needs. After discussing the situation and working with several contractors, it has been determined that it will take a minimum of $199,000 to remodel their home. Their current home has narrow hallways, small bathrooms, and small bedrooms with a lack of space for their medical equipment. The living areas of their home are not conducive for their family to function and maintain suitable care as well as create family unity.  It is imperative they remain in their current home because of the close proximity of school, friends, and family who are capable of assisting when the need arises. The time has now come that their home needs to be renovated. Larry and JaNae  are struggling to fulfill the needs of lifting and carrying one child in a wheelchair and will not be able to physically lift three boys every day. We are hoping and praying to receive enough donations in order to start these renovations by next month. Every donation is greatly appreciated, and will be remembered for a lifetime.  Please spread the word to help us accomplish our goal to bless the lives of the Christensen family.