Tara's Stem Cell Transplant

In May 2015, Tara was diagnosed with Juvenile Batten Disease. A genetic neurodegenerative illness with no known treatment or cure, it will slowly rob her of the ability to see, move, speak, remember, and eat. It is a fatal disease that will silently steal her away piece by piece. They have found hope at Duke University in Durham NC in the form of an experimental stem cell transplant. Although the long term outcome is uncertain, they believe it is the best option for Tara at this time to preserve her high level of function and quality of life.

Tara and her mother will settle in at the Ronald McDonald house.  Then she will have a week of last minute tests and exams, then chemo will start shortly after that. She is scheduled for transplant on 12/2. She faces at least 8 weeks in the hospital and 4 months at the RMH for daily clinic visits.

Tara's mother will be leaving the rest of the family and her job as a nurse to be with Tara for this entire process. In doing that, she will also be loosing a paycheck. They are willing to do whatever necessary to save their little girl's life, including selling their cars, house, etc. This family would do anything to help others in their time of need; I'd like to see the same for them. Your prayers and monetary donations will go a long way toward helping this little girl and her family.

As their friend and a parent myself, I thank each and every one of you in advance for your support!