Teen with Rare Medical Conditions Accesses Life-Changing Care
Struggling with Rare Medical Conditions
Samuel was born with multiple rare medical conditions. One of them is 12p12.1 chromosome microdeletion syndrome, found in 1 out of 1,000,000 live births. This problem is the root for many others. Some of the issues that stem from 12p12.1 chromosome microdeletion syndrome include intellectual disabilities, skeletal abnormalities and brain malformations.
In addition, Samuel suffers from autoimmune encephalitis. “When Samuel gets sick,” explained his parents, “his body produces antibodies that attack his brain instead for fighting the illness.”
“The results are excruciating and can last for months with him never fully regaining lost skills. With each flare, a little more of him is lost.”
A Life-Changing Opportunity…
The prognosis was starting to look bleak for Samuel. His parents didn’t know what to do, or where to turn, for treatment.
After much research, they found Banner Children’s Hospital in Tucson, Arizona. Banner Children’s Hospital has a team of doctors who specialize in autoimmune encephalitis. They held the best chance for increasing Samuel’s quality of life.
...Almost 2,000 Miles Away
However, there was just one obstacle – and it wouldn’t be easy to overcome. Banner Children’s Hospital is almost 2,000 miles away from Samuel’s home in Georgia. Driving would take multiple long days in the car.
Samuel’s parents added, “The drive would be very difficult with Sam’s health and the cost.” Flying would be much more efficient, but they couldn’t afford round-trip airfare.
How would Samuel access the care he needed?
Angels and Airlines
Samuel’s family was truly desperate for answers and aid. Their prayers were answered by a group of angels – Mercy Medical Angels, that is!
Mercy Medical Angels arranged a round trip to and from Banner Children’s Hospital on United Airlines. With support from The Hogan Foundation, the high expense of an airline ticket was no longer an issue. Samuel and his family had their trip completely covered – from the planning to the cost.
“Our flight was great,” said Samuel’s parents. “The transportation assistance has increased Samuel’s quality of life.”
“God Bless You All!”
Samuel is now back home and doing much better. It’s almost certain that he will face more challenges as time goes on. But with transportation assistance from Mercy Medical Angels, United Airlines, and The Hogan Foundation, those challenges will be a lot easier to handle.
“We are very grateful for your assistance,” said Samuel’s parents. “Samuel would not have been able to access the care he needed if it weren’t for Mercy Medical Angels, United Airlines, and The Hogan Foundation.”
“Thank you for all that you do – God bless you all!”
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