Many people may not be aware of the challenges the Smith family will be facing in the coming weeks—or the long road they have already traveled. This GoFundMe is being created to support a family that has been through so much and continues to face each challenge with strength, love, and hope.

Caleb has Down syndrome and spastic diplegic cerebral palsy. In 2013, he underwent extensive orthopedic surgery that included placing rods in both legs and cutting and lengthening both Achilles tendons. After that surgery, Caleb worked incredibly hard and, with the help of a walker and for several years even without a walker—he was able to walk.

In 2020, Caleb’s spasticity began to worsen. Over the years that followed, he experienced a major decline in flexibility, strength, and range of motion in his legs, eventually losing the ability to walk. Throughout his entire life, Johnny and Jan have done everything possible to help Caleb succeed. He has been in physical therapy his whole life and has undergone numerous rounds of Botox treatments, medications, and phenol injections. Despite their tireless efforts and working with countless specialists, none of these treatments provided lasting relief.

Just when it seemed all options had been exhausted, one final referral led them to a neurosurgeon who introduced a procedure called Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR).

This surgery offers renewed hope. At a minimum, it is expected to significantly reduce Caleb’s spasticity, relieve discomfort, and improve his flexibility and mobility—making daily life and caregiving easier. There is hope that Caleb may once again be able to stand using a walker, and while there are no guarantees, there is even a possibility that he could walk with his walker again.

Caleb is scheduled to undergo this surgery on April 23 at St. Lurie’s Children’s Hospital in Chicago. The surgery will last approximately five hours, followed by a four-day hospital stay. Afterward, Caleb will be transferred to a rehabilitation facility, where he will spend two weeks focusing on intensive physical therapy and recovery.

This journey will involve significant emotional, physical, and financial strain—from medical expenses and rehabilitation costs to travel, lodging, time away from work, and the day-to-day demands of caregiving. This GoFundMe is an opportunity to lift some of that weight and show the Smith family they are not facing this alone.

If you are able, please consider donating, sharing this fundraiser, or keeping Caleb and his family in your thoughts and prayers. Every act of kindness—large or small—means more than words can express.

Thank you for supporting a truly remarkable family.