Help Axel with his fight against Polymyositis

Dear friends, family, and generous donors,

I share with you the story of the Hansen family, who are near and dear friends, currently living a reality beyond the imagination. Their 5 year old son, Axel, who is the sweetest and kindest baby boy is currently dealing with unimaginable health struggles that have escalated very quickly. I share their story below and send my utmost gratitude for your generosity and helping to share their story.

"Dear Friends,

We are reaching out to every person this comes across to with both heavy & hopeful hearts. We are immensely grateful for the kindness and generosity that surrounds our family during this incredibly difficult time. As some of you may know, everyone’s baby, Axel, was hospitalized on February 11, 2025 with severe muscle pain/weakness, muscle inflammation, and whole body edema. After weeks of uncertainty, stays at multiple hospitals - Baptist, Holtz, Nicklaus, and now Joe DiMaggio Children’s hospital - where he’s received palliative, rehabilitative care, testing and lots of prayer; he was finally diagnosed with Polymyositis—a rare and debilitating autoimmune condition that has dramatically changed his young life.

Before this, Axel thrived as a precocious, three-sport athlete. He excelled in swimming, soccer, and most recently baseball. Following this diagnosis, he faces daily struggles. As of writing this letter, he requires a walker & wheelchair to move as well as a feeding tube. His Polymyositis, has caused significant weakness in his neck and torso (core) area which affect his ability to swallow both properly and safely.

Despite navigating the emotional and financial challenges of Axel’s illness and day-to-day

life. We, as a family, are also approaching a deeply personal milestone—our wedding;

planned for May 25, 2025. This long-awaited day has been something we all have been looking forward to, especially Axel. The financial strain of mounting unforeseen medical costs and rehabilitative expenses, has left us without the ability to meet the financial contractual deadlines for our special day. Although our world has been turned upside down at such a crucial point in our family’s life, our love and commitment to each other remain unwavering.

At this time, we have exhausted all options and now humbly seek donations to help us, not only move forward with our wedding, but also to ensure Axel receives the continued care and support he needs. Your generosity will allow us to celebrate our union while facing the road ahead with strength, knowing our community stands beside us. Any contribution, big or small, will make a meaningful impact. More than anything, we ask for your continued prayers, encouragement, and support as we fight alongside Axel on this journey.

With heartfelt gratitude,

The Hansens"