Thank you for taking the time to read this letter and learn more about the fundraising efforts for our daughter, Alaina Joy. We were very thankful when Alaina turned four years old in April. This was a miracle, considering she was born 16 weeks early and weighed just over 1 ½ pounds! She overcame many obstacles during her four-month stay at the DeVos Children’s Hospital. At 15 months old, Alaina was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy, specifically Spastic Diplegia, which causes muscles in the hips and legs to tighten. Because of this, Alaina has a hard time walking, sitting and doing many other normal four year old activities.
Recently, we were introduced to the Conductive Learning Center (CLC), which was established to help children like Alaina. Since she began attending the CLC, Alaina’s self confidence has improved, as well as her stamina and strength. She is now able to pull herself to her feet and sit for longer durations. Alaina is in a classroom setting for five hours a day, five days a week. In this environment, she is motivated by both the therapists and other children just like her. The CLC shares our goal, which is to help Alaina become as independent as possible.
In addition to conductive education, there is a procedure called PERCs (selective percutaneous myofascial lengthening). It is an outpatient surgery that lengthens tight muscles. This would greatly increase Alaina’s mobility potential by allowing her muscles to be stretched more than ever before. If these muscles are not stretched, they will shorten permanently, which could cause bone deformities. We have seen firsthand the marvelous results of kids who have undergone the PERCs procedure.
We are excited by the potential that these opportunities offer Alaina, but we are overwhelmed by the financial burden. The annual tuition to attend the CLC is $15,000. The estimated cost to perform the PERCs procedure is $8,000. To help with these expenses, we will be hosting an upcoming carnival/auction fundraiser to benefit Alaina’s care. We are seeking help from our friends, family and community businesses. We greatly appreciate any assistance, referrals and support you can provide Alaina. With your permission, we would like to acknowledge your support at our event, and highlight you on our blog (
http://www.thealainajoyfundraiser.blogspot.com/). This event will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2008 at First Baptist Church of Zeeland, MI. We hope to see you there.
Sincerely,
Jeremy and Trisha
I (we) would like to help in the following way(s):
Donate a new item or gift certificate for the auction
Make a monetary donation to Alaina Joy
Volunteer to help at the upcoming carnival/auction fundraiser
I (we) wish to remain anonymous
*For questions or additional information, please feel free to contact us at daisysanddots@yahoo.com
These are just a few pictures of the event on Saturday! We had a blast and I am happy to say that it is now just a memory!