in Memory of Isaac Archibald, age 10

Thank you for your interest in helping the Archibalds! I'm Sara, their across-the-street neighbor of 6 years. This fundraiser is to show the Archibald family that we love, care, and want to support them through this difficult time.

 

Friday evening, May 20, began much like many weekends in our neighborhood. Vanessa and I met outside in the front yard, as we often do, to discuss our children and our lives. That particular Friday was especially memorable because Isaac’s class at Mount Tabor got to spend their Field Day at the new Special Needs Park in New Albany. Vanessa spoke excitedly as she told me about the fun that was had and a special moment when she took Isaac through the water features and got soaked right before they were about to leave.

 

Vanessa then told me of her plans to look for a new house that was wheelchair accessible for Isaac and had an extra bedroom in case an aging parent needed a place to stay. She was also gearing herself up for Isaac’s special program at school the following week because he would be leaving his teacher of five years, Ms. Hollie. We also talked about Isaac’s upcoming transition to Highland Hills Middle School where I happen to work.

 

And just an hour later, Vanessa’s plans for Isaac and the Archibald family were forever changed. Isaac suffered a medical emergency and was found unresponsive. Firefighters, EMS, and medical professionals put forth all efforts to stabilize him and take him to Norton Children’s Hospital. For the next seven days, Vanessa and Robert waited for test results, recommendations from medical professionals, and some hard truths. After thorough discussions and many tears, they had to tell their 13-year-old son, Alex, that if Isaac woke up, he would never be the same. They also had to tell him that there was a chance Isaac was never coming home.

 

On Friday, May 27, Vanessa wrote, “At 1:16 p.m. today, Isaac walked into the arms of Jesus! I was holding him in my lap, and Alex and Robert were on each side. It was beautiful!”

 

Friends, can you even imagine what they endured this week?

 

Ten years ago, on December 22, 2011, Isaac Archibald was born. As an infant in the NICU, various tests were conducted immediately after his birth. Isaac was born with polymicrogyria (PMG), or abnormal brain development before birth. He also was diagnosed with Kabuki syndrome, a rare multisystem disorder that affects developmental and intellectual abilities. According to the Chive Charities website, “Since he was three months old, Isaac has received physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech, in addition to the family supporting his day-to-day medical needs."

 

Vanessa, a former teacher, has dedicated her life to Special Needs advocacy and being a full-time caretaker for Isaac. Robert, a Marine, rotates 2nd and 3rd shifts 60 hours a week to provide a great life for his family. While the family has lived off of one income for the past 10 years, and budgeted well to live within their means, no family should ever have to worry about money when it comes to the passing of a child.

 

Donations of any amount are gladly encouraged. As we wrap Vanessa, Alex, and Robert in our thoughts and prayers, we can also help them monetarily for future costs that have not even been considered. For example, their family van is specially equipped for Isaac, and buying a new vehicle might be an unforeseen cost. Their lives have revolved around keeping Isaac safe in their home, and any construction they need in the future should not cause financial strain.

 

The Archibalds are strong! Their commitment to family, friends, and church is so apparent. Let’s show them that we are here to help them in any way they need!