Support Baby John Lee's Fight Against Pompe

Help a brave mother fighting for her baby with Pompe disease.

Hi, my name is Katie Peterson, and I am reaching out with the heaviest but most hopeful heart.

On April 8th, 2025, I gave birth to my beautiful son, John Lee Anthony. What should’ve been the happiest time in our life turned into something that we could never imagine. After a week of concern and testing, specialists received heartbreaking news that our son, John Lee, has infantile Pompe disease. A rare and life-threatening genetic disorder that affects muscle strength, heart function, and the ability to thrive.

This diagnosis has changed our world. Pompe disease is incredibly rare and requires ongoing enzyme replacement therapy, frequent hospital visits, and specialized care. Most importantly, a lot of love and support. As a mother, all I want to do is give my son the best possibility of life.

With this diagnosis, I will have to step away from my job and become a full-time caregiver, facing the emotional and financial costs.

Travel to and from specialty hospitals.

Life-saving medication and treatments.

Medical equipment.

Basic living expenses during this critical time.

No parent is ever ready for this, and I am humbly asking for your help.

Whether it’s a donation or a prayer, your kindness will allow me to be by John Lee's side every step of the way.

Thank you for reading our story, and thank you for believing in our baby’s fight.

We are not giving up, and with your help, we won’t have to.

With love and gratitude:

Katie Peterson, great grandmother Marjorie Castleberry, and John Lee Anthony

Dunlap, Tennessee