Hi! My name is Erika and I have been best friends with Michelle since 9th grade. I have started this gofundme campaign with the hope that people’s kindness and generosity will help the O’Leary family in a time of need.

Although Matty’s Batten’s disease diagnosis was learned several years ago, the O’Leary’s have been able to manage the associated costs of caring for him until now. Matty is now over five feet and over a hundred pounds and thus giving him “tubbies” (baths) has become too difficult for his parents to manage. It is time for the O’Leary’s to transition their bathroom from a bathtub to a shower that is wheelchair accessible however this shower comes with the astonishing price tag of $17,000… hence why I am asking for your help and support.

For those of you who do not know Matty’s story, I wanted to share that with you. Matty’s medical journey began when he was just three and his life took an unimaginable turn when he started experiencing terrible seizures. After months of follow ups, an epilepsy diagnosis that didn't seem to fit his symptoms, a barrage of appointments with specialists, tests and numerous overnight stays in hospitals, the heartbreaking diagnosis of CLN 2 (Batten’s Disease) was confirmed.

This disease is relentless and cruel, but the O’Leary family was blessed with a miracle when they were accepted into a year-long clinical trial in Columbus testing Brineura, which is an enzyme replacement therapy that is critical to slowing the rapid deterioration of this disease. It is administered directly into the brain via a surgically implanted port bi-weekly for the rest of his life until a cure is discovered. Matty started these treatments in 2014 and continues them to this day.

Despite the relentless challenges he faces, Matty’s spirit is very strong, and his huge smile and infectious laughter continues to light up our lives every day.

Matty's parents, Michelle and Joe, are doing everything in their power to provide him with the best care and ensure his continued comfort and happiness. This includes specialized therapies, and adaptive equipment to make caring for Matty and his needs easier on his parents, grandparents and brother.

Funds will be used first to pay for the shower, but if we raise more, they will use the funds for ongoing specialized equipment that is crucial for Matty’s comfort and well-being. They have already adapted much of their home to accommodate his needs and they hope to continue to do so.

No donation is too small, and every dollar makes a difference. Your generosity will help us alleviate the financial burden of caring for a child with a rare and debilitating disease.

Matty's parents are immensely grateful for your support, love, and prayers during this challenging journey. Your kindness gives us hope and allows Matty’s family to focus on what truly matters: providing him with the best life filled with love and care.

Please share this GoFundMe campaign with your friends, family, and networks to help us reach our goal.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!!