Help Poppy Fight Ataxia Telangiectasia: A Journey of Hope

Dear Friends, Family, and Kind Hearts,

We are reaching out today with heavy hearts but with steadfast determination, as we navigate an unthinkable path that no parent should ever have to walk. Our beautiful niece, Poppy, has recently been diagnosed with Ataxia Telangiectasia (A-T), a rare genetic disease that threatens her future; causes loss of muscle control and balance, high risk for cancer, lung disease and involves severe immune deficiencies in children and young adults, shortening their lives. This journey has been filled with uncertainty, tears, and fear, but it has also ignited a fire within us to ensure Poppy has the love and support she deserves.

A Fight from the Very Beginning:

Poppy’s medical challenges began just a week after her birth when tests revealed low TREC levels, sending her parents down a path of doctor visits, blood tests, and genetic testing. Initially, they were ecstatic to hear that everything was clear, but their hopes were quickly dashed when results from further testing unveiled the devastating diagnosis of A-T.

Poppy’s parents, Kyle and Sam, have been pillars of strength; however, the weight of medical bills and the requirement for specialized care has necessitated both of them to surrender to the power of crowd-funding. Unfortunately, Poppy cannot attend daycare due to her weakened immune system, leaving her without a safe environment to socialize and grow among other kids.

Our goal through this GoFundMe campaign is to raise funds that will:

Provide Private Care: With Poppy's compromised immune system, she needs dedicated and specialized care. This is going to be costly, but it is crucial to protect her from potential illnesses that are extremely dangerous for her.

Support Travel to Medical Appointments: Poppy’s medical journey includes visits to renowned medical facilities such as Johns Hopkins. The travel and time off work is not just exhausting, but also expensive, and we want to ensure that Poppy can receive the best care without added financial strain.

Cover Medical Bills: As hospital visits and therapies accumulate, so do the costs. Your support will alleviate some of the financial pressures they face, allowing them to focus on Poppy’s health and happiness instead of worrying about bills.

A Community of Hope

Sam and Kyle have connected with the amazing support network at the A-T Children’s Project, who are helping us find resources and options. The encouragement and love from the community have been invaluable, reminding Sam and Kyle that they are not alone in this fight. But they can't do it on their own- we're reaching out to ask for your help.

Every donation, no matter how small, helps create a lifeline for this young, new family during this tumultuous time. Together, we can help ensure that Poppy receives the care she desperately needs and deserves. The love and support you show will directly impact Poppy's quality of life, giving her every chance to thrive despite the challenges she faces.

Join Us in This Fight

Poppy may be small, but she has a spirit that shines brighter than any diagnosis. We are committed to advocating for her and raising awareness about A-T, because children like her deserve better. They deserve a cure.

Thank you for taking the time to read Poppy’s story and for considering supporting Sam, Kyle and Poppy during this challenging journey. Your kindness, prayers, and encouragement mean the world to us. Together, let’s give Poppy the best life possible—filled with love, laughter, and the joys of childhood.

Follow Poppy's journey on Instagram and Facebook @poppystrail

With gratitude and hope,

Poppy's biggest cheering squad!