Support Rory's Journey: Help Fund Perlman Center

Do what those you love cannot.

That quote has been an inspiration for me these past months as I've trained and worked toward the goal of completing the 21k/14 mile Spartan race.

Let me introduce you to my youngest son, Rory, the sweet boy in the picture. You can see Rory working on his physical therapy, which he goes to 2-3 times per week (in addition to home therapies and countless appointments with his 12+ medical specialists).

Rory was born with HIE - hypoxemic ischemic encephalopathy (lack of blood to the brain) and as a result, has developed cerebral palsy, hyper and hypotonia, epilepsy, sleep disorders, and is G tube dependent, among many other complex medical problems.

Rory's therapy is done at the Perlman Center with Cincinnati Children's Hospital, where they specialize in partnering with children like Rory who are differently abled. Through their care and dedication, we have seen Rory do things we did not think possible - from playing with friends and communicating, to standing (with help), to taking steps in his walker. Not only have they helped Rory beyond our wildest dreams, but they have shown compassion, patience, dedication, and love to Rory, and their impact on his and our lives cannot be overstated. This race has become something bigger to me. I want to use this as an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for those who have become such a critical part of his life and our family's life.

These funds will go toward Perlman Center's supply costs for activities they make for children. The funds will also be allocated to a scholarship fund for families and children who may not have insurance coverage and would otherwise have to self-pay or opt out of participation in the program. These scholarships provide essential opportunity at a critical time in a child's life and development. We want to ensure the impact the Perlman program has made on our lives can be shared with every child who needs their help.