Hi! And, thank you for taking a moment to learn more about this Helios fundraiser.

 

First, let me introduce myself. My name is Fara.

 

 

I am a good friend of the Whitman's. In fact, Stephanie and I have been friends since 3rd grade. And, I had the privilege to be co-maid of honor at Stephanie and Ryan's wedding. Needless to say, I have known this family for a long time and care dearly for them.

 

Fast-forward to why I have started this Go Fund Me. I am trying to help Ryan and Stephanie raise $26,000 for Helios (his new braces).

 

 

Some of you may know, but some might not. Ryan’s disability (Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease ) has gotten significantly worse over the past few years and unfortunately, he continues to decline.

 

He started walking with a cane a few years back but recently decided to use a walker, even around our house to help him feel more stable. He continues to wear his AFOs (which are the braces he’s had for close to five years now), but because of his drastic decline, they are not supporting him anymore.

 

To help him walk with more stability, the doctor has recommended he invest in braces called Helios.

 

Helios is made by one specific person in Las Vegas and has made him capable of walking throughout the years when no other brace could support him.

 

There is a newer brace Ryan would like to try that will go over his knees and hopefully allow for more stability when walking and standing. Unfortunately, these braces are not cheap, and like many well-made medical supplies, they are not covered by insurance.

 

This is where you come in. If you could help Ryan and Stephanie out with any donation amount, (seriously, even $5 is much appreciated) it would be greatly appreciated.

 

Each custom-made brace costs $13,000. So, two braces will run the Whitmans $26,000.

 

We all hope the Helios will give Ryan as many more years of walking as his body will allow before he may end up in a wheelchair.

 

I know this is a lot to ask, but I also know Ryan has some amazing people in his life who love and support him, so I hope you are willing to help out in whatever way you can.

 

Thank you from the bottom of my heart as well as from Stephanie and Ryan.

 

 

About Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease

 

A group of hereditary disorders that damage the nerves in the arms and legs.

 

Charcot-Marie-Tooth is a degenerative nerve disease that usually appears in adolescence or early adulthood.

 

 

For more information, visit Charcot-Marie-Tooth Association (CMTA).

Update: We are incredibly grateful for all of the generosity and support. Any funds that are raised over our goal amount, we will donate to CMTA.