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Help Karsyn Take His First Steps: Support His PFFD Journey!

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"It's not an obligation; it's an opportunity."

Meet Karsyn! A vibrant, curious, and joyful boy who turns one on November 15, 2024. Full of energy and love, Karsyn spends his days laughing, playing, and exploring. He loves his toys and spending time with his cousin Huxley, always lighting up the room with his heartwarming smile. His cheerful personality and infectious happiness bring joy to everyone around him, making him the center of attention to his parents Ryan and Megan (McMahon) Mullen.

Karsyn was born with a rare condition called Proximal Femoral Focal Deficiency (PFFD). PFFD is a congenital disorder that affects the development of the thigh bone (femur), causing significant differences in leg length, hip deformities, and mobility challenges. Karsyn has faced these difficulties since birth, and while he has shown incredible resilience, the journey ahead will require ongoing treatments and care.

What is PFFD?
Proximal Femoral Focal Deficiency (PFFD) is a rare condition, affecting about 1 in every 200,000 births. In Karsyn's case, his femur didn’t fully develop, leading to a severe leg length discrepancy and hip joint instability. This condition makes everyday activities—like walking, running, and even sitting—more challenging and, at times, painful.

While PFFD has no cure, there are treatments and surgeries that can significantly improve Karsyn’s quality of life. However, these treatments are costly, time-intensive, and will require multiple surgeries, therapies, and prosthetics over the years to come.

How You Can Help
We are raising funds to cover the costs of Karsyn’s upcoming medical treatments, including:
  • Surgical Treatments: Karsyn will need surgeries to improve leg length and joint function as he grows.
  • Prosthetics: Custom prosthetics will ensure that Karsyn has the mobility and independence he deserves.
  • Physical Therapy: Regular therapy is essential to help Karsyn build strength, improve balance, and learn to walk more comfortably.
  • Travel Expenses: The best specialists for PFFD are located in New Hampshire and Boston, Massachusetts, so Karsyn’s family will need to travel frequently for consultations and procedures.
Our Goal
We are hoping to raise $20,000 or more to help cover the initial cost of Karsyn’s treatments and his first prosthetic. Every contribution, no matter the size, will help Karsyn receive the care he needs to live a full, mobile, and independent life.

Karsyn’s Journey
Recently, Karsyn had two sets of X-rays at his orthopedic appointment. One measured the lengths of both legs and assessed his hip formation, while the other focused on his left femur and hip socket. The results confirmed that Karsyn will need a Syme Amputation of his left foot around age 2 or 3, with possible future hip surgery as he grows.

We also had Karsyn’s first consultation with Next Step Bionics and Prosthetics. He's ready for his first prosthetic, and in the coming weeks, he’ll have a casting appointment, followed by fitting and pick-up of his "Stubby" prosthetic.

Karsyn’s Bright Future
Karsyn has shown remarkable resilience, inspiring everyone with his ability to adapt and overcome challenges. He continues to grow and explore the world with infectious enthusiasm, never letting his condition define him. With the right care and resources, we believe Karsyn can achieve anything. Your support will provide the medical treatments and prosthetics he needs, empowering him to embrace every opportunity and live fully and confidently.

Thank You for Your Support
Your generosity will directly impact Karsyn’s ability to receive life-changing medical care. Whether you are able to donate or simply share this page, any support is deeply appreciated. Together, we can make a lasting difference in Karsyn’s life.

With heartfelt gratitude,
Karsyn’s Family










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    Organizer and beneficiary

    Karsyn's Family
    Organizer
    Wells, VT
    Megan Mullen
    Beneficiary

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