Hi, my name is Gracie Markey and I am fundraising for my brother and sister-in-law, Jonathan and Haley Markey. Their family has had some unusual challenges that really need support. They are both 23 years old, and have three children. Two of their three children have unrelated genetic abnormalities. Their first son, Matthew, is three years old and was born with a rare genetic condition called OCA1 (Occulocutaneous Albinism type 1). He has little or no melanin in his hair, skin, and eyes. His eyes also have small maculars and weak muscles that required surgery to help align them. He needs skin, hair, and eye protection at all times. This impacts their entire family, as his condition requires complete UV protection. This will never change for Matthew.

This past week, unrelated to albinism, Jonathan and Haley had a baby girl named Eden Joy Markey. She was born with Trisomy 21, or more commonly referred to as Down Syndrome. Their family situation is very unique, as they now face responsibilities for care and finances that are very extensive.

Jonny and Haley love and adore their three children and feel very blessed to have each one of them. Their life is filled with the same love that all parents have. However, they will have extensive care taking and responsibilities that most will never understand.

I wanted to show them that they have a support system that they may, or may not, even know about. I wanted to give them a gift that would help them as they raise these precious children, and would make the many things that they are responsible for just a little bit easier. Would you help me give them something that would ease their financial responsibilities? Finally, thank you for your compassion and kindness as we help Jonathan and Haley cover expenses related to Matthew and Eden’s medical expenses.