Help Thatcher on his medical journey with RCDP

The Mirandas recently received a diagnosis for their lovely son, Thatcher, after 4 and a half years of searching for what was causing his medical challenges. Thatcher was diagnosed with a mild form of an extremely rare genetic condition called Rhizomelic Chondrodysplasia Punctata (RCDP), which is a fatal form of dwarfism. There have been fewer than 20 cases reported worldwide of the mild phenotype of this condition! RCDP is characterized by skeletal abnormalities, severe intellectual disability, uncontrolled seizures, cataracts and hip abnormalities, all of which Thatcher has. Thatcher does not walk or talk and requires help with all of his daily living. Nicole had to leave her job as a teacher to care for Thatcher full time, so the family now has one income.

With this diagnosis comes more medical expenses including trips to see specialists and researchers on RCDP at Nemours Hospital in Delaware (the only hospital in the country that specializes in this condition) as well as frequent trips to meet with doctors at Doernbecher in Portland, OR. Medical equipment that insurance will not cover is also in need, including a safe bed, a special chair for him to sit in for eating and a gait trainer.

The family is also in need of funds to help hire someone to come into their home to help care for Thatcher, as they have two other children (ages 11 months and 7 years) who they are also caring for. Thatcher's needs are so high and given his high frequency of seizures every day, he requires someone with him at all times, so outside help is a necessity to keep him safe.

Donate what you can! Every little bit helps in a big way! In the meantime, they will keep celebrating him and every milestone he hits. Thatcher melts everyone's hearts instantly. He's a happy little guy who loves his family, music, fast cars and lights. The Mirandas just love him to pieces!