Brady was diagnosed with Juvenile Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD) on April 22, 2022, at the age of 7. Symptoms had been noted for about a year before reaching a diagnosis. MLD is a very rare genetic condition that causes degeneration of the white matter in the brain. It affects about 1 in 140,000 children. Both Neil and Katie are carriers of this disease, and the likelihood of them having a child with MLD is about 1 in 4. Brady’s body lacks an enzyme called Arylsulfatase-A, which maintains the myelin sheath in the nervous system. Without that enzyme, sulfatides build up, eventually destroying the myelin sheath and causing the brain to cease functioning properly. Unfortunately, there is no cure for MLD. We can expect to see symptoms for Brady include loss of speech, loss of the ability to walk, issues swallowing and chewing, muscle rigidity, seizures, and ultimately loss of all body functions. Kids with MLD often have feeding tubes inserted, need to have their gall-bladders removed, and various other surgeries aimed at improving their quality of life.

The family feels very blessed right now to be financially able to take care of everything Brady needs. That could change in the future; we don’t know. We know that many have already reached out with very generous hearts and want to give no matter what. The family is very appreciative of everything that has been done to lighten the load, even a little bit.

This page is being created to make it easier for those who choose to give. If the funds are not needed for Brady’s care, the family has several ideas in mind that are close to their hearts, and they will be good stewards of any donations.