The Story

Imagine having the will to move, to speak, and to play, but your brain and muscles aren't speaking the same language. This is Emma’s daily reality. At 13 months old, Emma was diagnosed with a rare CASK gene mutation, which is a condition that affects her entire body, making every movement a mountain to climb.

At 23 months old, Emma is a fighter. She has learned to sit on her own, but the milestones many take for granted, such as crawling, standing, and speaking, remain out of reach. She is non-verbal and uses her eyes to tell us she is ready to engage with the world, but her body needs a roadmap.

The Solution: Virginia Tech’s CASK Intensive

We have found a beacon of hope at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech. Emma has been accepted into their specialized CASK intensive program for October 2026. This isn’t typical therapy; it is 80 hours of high-intensity neurological "rewiring" designed to help her brain find new paths to her muscles.

Why We Need Your Help

Because this program is highly specialized and research-based, it is not covered by insurance. The tuition is $24,000, and the cost of relocating our family to Roanoke for the month adds another $2,000.

Your donation is a direct investment in Emma’s independence. It is a chance for her to stand, to communicate, and to eventually take her first steps. We are asking you to be a part of Emma’s village.

Donation Menu

$35 — The Road to Roanoke

Covers fuel and tolls for the 1,200-mile round trip from New York to Virginia.

$75 — A Night’s Rest

Covers one night of medical-rate lodging in Roanoke, ensuring Emma is rested for her 4-hour daily sessions.

$230 — One Hour of Rewiring

Directly funds 60 minutes of one-on-one therapy with a CASK specialist. (Emma will complete 80 of these).

$920 — A Full Day of Discovery

Funds a full 4-hour daily block of intensive PT and OT.

$1,500 — The Platform Guardian

This donation covers the 2.9% + $0.30 processing fees for the entire campaign, ensuring every other dollar goes 100% to the clinic.

$6,000 — One Full Week

Funds 25% of Emma’s entire clinical tuition.