My sister is almost 13 years old and has been a fighter since the day she was born. She was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder at birth called Partial Trisomy 16 with X-Gene Deletion which affects multiple organs. This has left her fully disabled—she cannot walk or talk, and she relies on us for everyday things such as dressing, feeding, changing, bathing, etc. Despite these challenges, she is the sweetest person and can light up a room with her laughter and smile. She’s taught me and so many others about strength, resilience, and the power of a positive spirit. Over the years, she’s undergone two hip surgeries, a head surgery at just nine months old, several ear tube placements, tonsillectomy before 2yrs old and most recently a back surgery that involved having her back fused and rods placed in her back to straighten her back due to scoliosis. Through it all, she manages to keep a huge smile on her face and continues to amaze us with her courage and intelligence, even though her condition is so rare that we’re still learning about it every day.

My mom is her main caretaker and does everything she can to make sure my sister is comfortable and happy. As my sister has grown—she’s now 86 pounds of dead weight—helping her in and out of the car has become more and more difficult, especially since my mom’s health has started to decline. My mom will need a hip replacement in the future and possibly back surgery herself. Right now, we have to pick my sister up and put her in a small sedan that’s low to the ground, which is becoming unsafe and physically exhausting for all of us. We want to raise enough money to get my mom a reliable, handicap-accessible vehicle that can be fitted with a ramp or lift. This would make a world of difference for our family, making transportation safer and easier for my sister and easing the strain on my mom.

My mom is also a single mom with 3 kids, I'm the oldest and I've been helping my mom my whole life especially since my baby sister was born. She's been going through her own problems such as back and hips she has arthritis (multiple kinds) in her back, knee and hips, she has hip dysplasia, bursitis and fibromyalgia. Being my sister's main caretaker isn't easy for her by no means. She works 1 job so she can spend time at home and be able to take care of sister.

If you’re able to help, it would mean so much to us. My sister has touched so many lives with her joy and perseverance, and we would be incredibly grateful for any support you can give. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for considering our family and helping us make life a little easier for my sister and mom.