Hutton Family Support- James' Journey with Hurler Syndrome

1/14/25 Update: Our families honestly cannot believe the support that has been shown to Eric, Rachel, and James. It has surpassed our hopes immensely and is a testament to the kind of people that Eric and Rachel are. We have met the desired goal and continue to climb still with support... it is so very appreciated. They leave this Saturday and are busy wrapping up Ohio affairs and packing. Bless everyone who has supported them- financially and through continued prayers!

Eric and Rachel (Kremer) Hutton welcomed their son, James Thaddeus, into the world on November 11, 2024. The day after they arrived home from the hospital, they received a follow-up call from their pediatrician that one of his blood tests was showing an abnormality. After several visits and additional tests with their pediatrician, they were referred to Nationwide Children's in Columbus. It's been a whirlwind of life for them since these mid-November initial appointments. James has officially been diagnosed with MPS Type 1-Hurler's Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder. He is lacking the enzyme that breaks down long-chain sugar molecules, which causes those sugar molecules to back up in his body. This backup has degenerative effects on vital organs as well as physical growth. Although there is no cure, there are several intensive treatments that work to slow the progression and extend the quality and quantity of James' life.

Nationwide Children's in Columbus worked to link Eric and Rachel with an MPS clinical trial in Minnesota at M Health Fairview Masonic Children's Hospital. Eric, Rachel, and James will travel to Minnesota on January 20th and will need to remain in Minnesota until June. He will be admitted to start baseline testing and chemo as part of the preparation for a bone marrow transplant that will occur in late February. After the bone marrow transplant, he will be in the hospital for a minimum of an additional four weeks. Once discharged, he will stay with Eric and Rachel in their apartment in Minnesota in order to cycle back to the hospital for frequent monitoring.

Rachel and Eric are so incredibly faith-filled and are embarking on this medical journey for James with resiliency and calm. They have inspired their extended family members greatly already. They are so grateful for the expertise and collaboration between their pediatrician, Nationwide Children's in Columbus, and M Health Fairview Masonic Children's Hospital in Minnesota.

How can you help?

PRAYERS! Prayers for strength for sweet James as he undergoes various medical procedures. Pray for wisdom and peace for Rachel and Eric as they navigate some very big decisions as parents.

If you feel called to support financially, it will support their unique year that they will be navigating. Their priority is on the the health of James and getting up to Minnesota for the next six months. Rachel is a physical therapist for Premier Health but will be taking an extended leave from her work. Eric works for Athletes in Action and is also taking classes to be a pastor. He also will be stepping away from work and classes during this time. They both want to be in Minnesota for James' procedure and follow up.

Rachel and Eric could truly benefit greatly from financial support. It would allow them to focus on James without the worries of financial stress. Support would assist them with monthly expenses that will still exist here in Ohio during their stay in Minnesota. It will also help them with gas to and from hospitals, groceries, deductibles on medical bills, and more. Gas cards, grocery gift cards, or restaurant gift cards also would help them as they navigate the months ahead. God will lead them through the journey of this year and beyond with James, and your support and prayers during this initial medical journey will remind them that sometimes our greatest struggles bring people together and build our strength.

We humbly thank you for your support of them during this time.