Stand by Kallie Parker and her family

As a friend of the Parker family, when I heard Kallie Parker was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes the day before Easter, my heart ached for her and her family. A life-changing diagnosis at age 12 is difficult, yet I'm confident Kallie will handle it with strength.

Kallie is a champ and is handling things with an inspiring optimistic attitude. She said while in the hospital on the first day: "The biggest thing is how unexpected this is. And for someone who hates needles it is rough. But I have two IV's in my arm--I can handle anything now."

This diagnosis, hospital stay, and life adjustment come at a hard financial time in the Parker family. Rachel Parker (Kallie's mom) provides for the family through running two small businesses, and as she's struggling with undiagnosed health problems herself, this has been an unexpected change, and a financial burden. Not to mention that Kallie's maternal grandmother is going through cancer treatments, and their family helps care for her special needs uncle on those days when her grandma has treatments.

Kallie's dad, Bobby Parker, is finishing his master's thesis, recording podcasts, writing books, and creating music to help provide for the family, all while helping juggle childcare and homeschooling with his wife (Rachel). Funds are tight and the whole family is working to contribute to keep things afloat.

The funds from this GoFundMe will help with the initial hospital stay, estimated to be around 7,000 dollars.

Then equipment, like a glucose monitor, and insulin, which can range to be around 1-3,000 dollars.

The rest ($5,000+) will go to helping care for the family, and relieve the financial burden of Rachel Parker (mom) losing time to work because of doctors' visits and learning to adjust to this lifestyle change.

Kallie is spunky and so intelligent. This diagnosis will only help her sparkle more and show how special and strong she is. Let's help give Kallie and her family time to adjust without the financial strain of lost work and bills hanging over their heads. Anything donated will be appreciated by the family.