Help for The Sanders Family!

One afternoon in 2017, life changed for the Sanders family. While playing ball with his friend, Zac, experienced his first encounter with Tourette’s Syndrome at the age of 13. It has been nearly 3 years now, and we’ve learned that Zac has the most severe case of Tourette’s Syndrome and other neurological issues that doctors have encountered here in Colorado. Zac’s life went from that of the average child’s, to one full of fear, pain, and the loss of control over his body and speech. In January, sudden paralysis left Zac wheelchair-bound; he has no feeling below the knees. Daily life includes exhausting physical and verbal tics from Tourette’s and now most discouragingly, Zac has lost his ability to stand, walk and, sporadically, the ability to speak. The fact that Zac is missing many aspects of the most critical teenage years is incredibly heart-breaking and we need to find a way to get him some of this time back. 

The financial toll is overwhelming. With their world turned upside down, Zac’s needs are far beyond all the family has been able to accommodate. While continuing to pursue every medical avenue, Zac’s immediate safety needs require many handicap modifications to their house including the home’s bathrooms, kitchen, home entries and so much more. In addition to the immediate home needs, the next goal would be to provide them the financial allowance to visit Tourette’s specialists outside of Colorado. Treatment facilities are located on the East and West Coasts. In addition to travel costs, this would also prevent them from working full-time and of course, has already had an impact on their current income. Neurologists and specialists in Colorado have recommended that help is needed elsewhere. Zac is at a place with this disease that he must meet with top specialists in the country, if not abroad. Another big goal is to get a service dog from a training center in Oklahoma that specially train dog to pre-warn Zac of seizures and dangerous tics to prevent further injury - and provide a little peace of mind. 

With the determination for a healthy future for Zac, the Sanders are facing a challenge they cannot achieve on their own. Over the past year he has worked very hard to maintain his Honor Roll status at Rock Canyon High School, but as his health has declined his doctor has recommended that a more flexible school setting at a private school is needed for him to be able to finish high school. 

We know the Sanders family has so many people that love them and want to help but don’t know how. This is where we can help! Just imagine yourself or your own child in this situation. Zac’s ability to attend school, engage in a typical teen’s social life and simply leave the house safely are all at the mercy of his exceedingly rare disorders. Zac has many passions in life that deserve his pursuit, such as guitar, lacrosse, time with friends, a strong education, and helping others. We know they would appreciate any assistance you can afford, and they need all the help they can get!

Thank You, Thank You, Thank You!