Abigail Leonard is 10 years-old and was born with a medical condition known as FOXG1 Syndrome. A genetic panel performed at Boston Children’s Hospital confirmed something called a “14q12 deletion”, which includes FOXG1. As a result, Abigail cannot sit or walk independently, is nonverbal, has reflux and uncontrolled epilepsy. She is nonverbal, in a wheelchair, and legally blind.
When Abigail was born, she appeared to be a perfectly healthy full-term baby girl. By the time she was nine months old, she did not sit independently and her eyes crossed more than normal. We were told she was a healthy, typical child who might be a little delayed because of eye issues and we were referred to a pediatric eye doctor. An MRI of Abigail’s eyes and brain were ordered it was at that time we were informed of a myriad of issues in Abigail’s brain. Early Intervention through private physical and speech therapy, occupational therapists, along with a few specialists was started. By Abigail’s two and a half birthday she had her first grand mal seizure, which unfortunately have continued and she requires strong medications.
Despite these obstacles, Abigail is a ray of sunshine and an inspiration to those who meet her. She’s an extremely happy child and loves meeting new people and going new places. She will be starting 4th Grade in September and loves school. We wouldn’t change her for the world. Abigail is in a wheelchair full time and desperately needs a new van, which will enable her to be transported out of the house. The van will be a lifeline for getting Abigail to school, church, social outings and activities, and much needed medical appointments, therapies and rehabilitation. A spacious and functional van with a ramp and modifications made specifically for Abigail can cost upwards of $60,000! Abigail desperately needs this vehicle, as her health and livelihood depend on it. Her parents and support family work around-the clock to support her. With the cost of rehabilitation, living expenses, home modifications, medical appointments, nursing care and medications, there is little money left to afford a van. Abigail and her family need your financial support to help this deserving young girl get the much deserved care she needs!
To help offset such expenses, a fundraising campaign in Abigail’s honor has been established with Help Hope Live, a trusted nonprofit organization that has been providing community-based fundraising guidance to patients and their families for more than 30 years. All donations are tax-deductible to the full extent allowed by law, are held by Help Hope Live in the Northeast Catastrophic Illness Fund, and are administered by Help Hope Live for illness-related expenses only. To make a donation to this fundraising campaign, please click on the yellow DONATE NOW button.
Thank you ahead of time for your thoughts, prayers and generous support. Any donation amount, no matter how big or small, is one step closer to a brighter future and better life for Abigail.
Gratefully,
Abigail’s loving family, friend and Community
