Bless the Turell Family: Giving Hope & Support

Extend a Helping Heart ❤️

Join me, Liz, in supporting friends in need.

Let me introduce you to Harvey and Elaine Turell, two incredible individuals facing challenges most of us can't even imagine. Their story is one of love, resilience, and unwavering dedication to their family.

They embarked on their journey like any other couple, dreaming of a future filled with laughter and the joy of a growing family. However, fate had other plans when their daughter Ellie was diagnosed with the rare genetic condition, PCH Type 1B, at the age of 8. Initially labeled with cerebral palsy, it wasn't until July 2013, when new genetic testing emerged, that they received Ellie's correct diagnosis of PCH Type 1B by February 2014. In an instant, their world was forever changed.

PCH Type 1B, also referred to as Pontocerebellar Hypoplasia Type 1B, is a rare genetic disorder that touches the lives of those affected with deep complexity. It is characterized by the underdevelopment (hypoplasia) of crucial brain regions such as the cerebellum and pons, which play pivotal roles in movement, coordination, and various essential functions. This condition typically emerges early in infancy or childhood, bringing forth significant neurological challenges that profoundly impact individuals and their families.

From the very beginning, this rare genetic disorder posed a threat to Ellie's life, with the grim statistic that most children afflicted don't survive past their second birthday. However, defying these odds, Ellie, now 18, continues to surpass expectations daily.

Undeterred by adversity, Harvey and Elaine courageously welcomed two more children, Xander (11) and Naveen “Nini” (7), both born with the same condition as Ellie.

Their days are filled with round-the-clock care, hospital visits, and the everyday challenges of raising children with complex needs.

All three children, Ellie, Xander, and Naveen, are non-ambulatory, relying on wheelchairs for mobility. They are non verbal, communicating solely through an eye-gazing system, and adhere to a labor-intensive blended diet fed through g-tubes. Getting them ready to leave the house requires 3-5 hours of preparation each time.

At 11, Xander faces the toughest challenge, relying on a ventilator for breathing support.Their family's frequent hospital visits took a terrifying turn in July of 2023, when Xander's heart stopped at home. But by the grace of God and due to Harvey and Elaine's attentiveness and quick response, he was revived!

Despite the hurdles they face each day, Harvey and Elaine greet life with unwavering love and acceptance. They view their children as beautiful blessings, treating them with dignity and seeing them as equals deserving of boundless love. Their inspiring outlook serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us all to embrace every individual with compassion and celebrate the unique beauty they bring to the world.

In addition to their daily challenges, Harvey and Elaine have a heartfelt dream: owning a van large enough to accommodate their family and the equipment needed to care for their children. This van would not only simplify their day-to-day activities but also open up new opportunities for them to explore and create cherished memories together.

By contributing to this dream, you're not just providing practical assistance; you're offering them a chance to experience the freedom and joy that many of us take for granted. Let's work together to make this dream a reality for the Turell family, allowing them to navigate life's journey with greater ease and happiness.

If you're able, please consider offering a helping hand to this extraordinary family. Your contribution, whether big or small, could make a world of difference in their lives. Let's come together and show Harvey, Elaine, and their children that they're not alone in this journey.

Thank you for your kindness and generosity.