This is Owen Rafael. He is a precious 15 month old baby boy born with a very rare chromosome disorder undetected on prenatal scans and no history in the family on either side of this disorder. He had several weeks in the NICU before this was detected , and fortunately, we have gotten a head start that many others were not able to get. We are very grateful to God for that.

Unfortunately this disorder, a chromosome 14 micro deletion with DICER syndrome, leads to a high risk of cancer and development of tumors as well as many musculoskeletal complications and delays. This requires frequent CT scans, X-rays, and MRIs to look for tumors mainly in the kidneys, the lungs, and brain. Owen currently has a large kidney tumor and will be having a radical nephrectomy, or kidney removal, in March 2025. In addition to the surgery, Owen has frequent need of physical and speech therapy to help with swallowing problems, as well as movement and balance. Any funds contributed would go towards assisting with the medical care, as well as the much needed therapies he is to undergo, likely until he is in his teenage years. Owen and his family greatly appreciate anything you can contribute and will make the most of any funds towards his health!

Many people in Texarkana know his grandmother, Diane Jones. She owns Sheer Country Hair Salon.

Please consider donating for his medical expenses.