Kyle Fitzgerald was born with pontocerebellar hypoplasia type 2 (PCH2), a very rare genetic disorder that affects development of the brain. His parents, Eric and Kate, didn’t know about Kyle’s condition until he was born with symptoms that led to genetic testing. During an incredibly difficult first year, Kyle suffered with seizures resulting in frequent hospitalizations.
Through medical treatment and therapies, Kyle has made incredible progress. He has developed eye contact, recognizes people, voices and faces, and smiles far more than he cries. But, he is unable to move on his own and requires a wide variety of devices to keep him comfortable every day. While some medical equipment is covered by insurance, there are many needed items that can only be obtained at a high out-of-pocket expense. Without the necessary equipment, Kyle becomes upset, but when comfortably positioned he especially enjoys having his siblings play with him and make him laugh.
After discovering a therapeutic seating device called the P Pod that would enable Kyle to more easily interact with family members, Kate and Eric were frustrated that it wasn’t covered by insurance and therefore was unattainable for their family at the time. Luckily, they were connected with the JJMF and applied for financial assistance through our simple online process. The JJMF was thrilled to provide a grant to purchase a P Pod chair for Kyle, who is enjoying spending time in it while his family enjoys seeing him smile – and so do we!