Hi, my name is Abe Franchot and my wife and I are raising money to ensure that our daughter, Brianne, can continue her necessary therapies. She is a lifetime learner and has needed Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, and Physical Therapy; some since she was six weeks old. She will continue to need these therapies for as long as it takes for her to reach her full potential, whatever that may be.

Brianne came into the world a fighter. We knew she was going to have Down Syndrome while my wife was still pregnant and we were prepared for all the challenges that go along with it. At 8 mos, Brianne began having little twitches for what seemed like no reason. After being admitted to Children's Hospital Los Angeles, she was diagnosed with West's Syndrome. This is a condition that is characterized by epileptic/infantile spasms, and abnormal brain wave patterns called hypsarrhythmia. The doctors said that in combination with her Down Syndrome, her likelihood of recovering and being able to learn and cognitively develop was extremely low. After treatment, there was still little response to the medications and protocols. As a final shot at treatment, Brianne underwent a very high-dose steroid regimen. Miraculously, after the regimen, her next EEG showed that the hypsarrhythmia had been resolved. What remained was to see how much permanent damage had been done to her brain while having the infantile spasms. There is no real way to know the extent of the cognitive delays that she will endure. She has been receiving intensive Occupational, Speech, and Physical Therapies for her to learn, and in some cases relearn, the necessary skills that she will need to have her best life. As a result of these therapies, we have seen significant progress in all areas. She wants so badly to learn and the smiles we get when she finally accomplishes something, no matter how small, just light up the room. All her therapists agree that without these therapies, Brianne will have little to no chance at continuing to develop in any area.

The funding request comes because our insurance will now only cover 45 combined therapy sessions in a calendar year. Brianne has therapy 6 times a week so by week 8, we have exhausted any insurance coverage. Now everything comes out of pocket. We are thankful for anything you can give, no matter how great or small. All funds donated will go to covering her therapies. Thank you.

Help us keep our warrior princess learning!