Reagan Goforth

We are writing to you today with a very special request. As many of you know, two of our three children, Reagan (3) and Casey (1) have a rare genetic condition called Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) which affects their ability to move, eat and even breathe like normal children. SMA is the number one genetic killer of children under 2 years old in the US today, and unfortunately there is currently no cure and very little in the way of treatments or therapies to slow the degenerative process. Without a cure or effective treatment plan, Reagan and Casey will eventually lose the use of their muscles, effectively becoming paralyzed and require mechanical ventilation and feeding to stay alive.

We have researched and explored every possible treatment option for our children and have found several research groups that are using stem cells to treat children like Reagan and Casey. This treatment offers the possibility of gaining muscle strength and mobility as well as slowing the progression of their degenerative condition. We have recently been accepted into a specialized stem cell program overseas, and they believe our children are ideal candidates for the procedure.

Stem cell transplantation is costly and not covered by insurance. The cost for the treatment and hospital fees is $35,000 each. There will also be airfare, transportation, food, housing, etc. during our four week stay abroad. We have only a few months to raise approximately $80,000. This is where your help is desperately needed.

A fundraising campaign in Reagan and Casey’s honor has been established with HelpHOPELive, a nonprofit organization that has been assisting the transplant community for 30 years. All contributions are tax-deductible, are held by HelpHOPELive in the South-Atlantic Stem Cell Transplant Fund, and are administered by HelpHOPELive for transplant-related expenses only. Please consider making an end of year tax-deductible contribution.

It is never easy to ask for help and now is certainly no exception. Reagan and Casey are so very special and have touched so many lives in a positive way. At times like this, the assistance of family, friends, neighbors, co-workers and the community is crucial to help ensure a positive outcome.

On behalf of all of us, thank you for your kindness, generosity, support and prayers. God bless you all.

Cricket Goforth
704-860-6729
[email protected]

Trent Goforth
704-689-8084
[email protected]