Support Reese and Family in Their Time of Need

I am heartbroken to share that my sweet nephew - Tyrese “Reese” aka “Reesie” aka “Reese’s Pieces” - is nearing the end of his life; we were devastated to be told it is likely a matter of weeks. Reese is the cherished son of Alecia and Tyrone, and beloved grandson of Peg, Dave, Sarrah, Willie and Crozet. He suffers from a rare genetic disorder called Menkes disease, which affects copper metabolism and leads to severe neurological problems, connective tissue abnormalities and other medical challenges. Family and long-time friends will remember that this is the same condition that claimed the lives of Alecia’s first child, DaVante, and our brother, DJ.

Born in 2006, Reese was one of the earliest participants in a clinical trial consisting of copper injections, administered at the National Institutes of Health. While life expectancy for this disease is typically 3 years of age or less, we have been blessed to have Reese with us for almost 19 years! To date, he is one of the oldest living individuals with this condition.

Reese loves Mario Brothers, Sonic and all things Marvel. We love his giant smile and big blue eyes that light up when he is surrounded by his family: doting grandparents; devoted siblings Wanya, TT and Tailer; aunts and uncles Brighid, Erin, Patrick, Willie, Andrel and Shameka; cousins Patrick, Miles, Evan, and Dankqwan; his nieces and nephews; “bonus” family Mac, Lexi, Rosie and Lucas – and of course, Bubbles the dog!

Alecia is an RN and respected Assistant Nurse Manager at Winter Park Memorial Hospital. She works incredibly hard, consistently clocking in 60 hours per week. Thankfully, she has saved a lot of PTO time that can be used during her time away from work. However, that doesn’t replace the income her family depends upon to make ends meet from her usual overtime hours. Tyrone has selflessly stayed home to care for Reese his entire life. He has done an impeccable job and the tenderness and connection between the two is unmistakable. I don’t think there is a more-loved child on this planet!

In a cruel twist of fate, Alecia also suffered a stroke this week. While thankfully mild, she will require months of therapy to regain full mobility on one side. Tyrone was also supposed to have spinal fusion surgery this week. It just feels like they can’t catch a break at an already incredibly sad and stressful time of their life.

Alecia and Tyrone also have TT, who is almost 20 and in college to think about. Another young adult friend, Mac, lives with them and they frequently have multiple school aged grandchildren living with them. Even under the best of circumstances, life is a financial struggle for their family.

This is not easy to "put it all out there" like this, but their family has endured so much. The financial toll of end-of-life care, lost income, and recovery expenses is significant for a family already struggling to make ends meet and any funds raised will be used specifically for these purposes. If you are so inclined, Alecia and Tyrone could sure use your help.

Every donation will help make a difference. Prayers are desperately needed for comfort for our grieving family. Please feel free to share this post. Thank you so much for your consideration. I know they feel your love!