June 15, 2009

Help Adam

Category: Community — admin @ 1:00 am

Adam Sprow - Four Years Old

Adam Sprow - Four Years Old

This little guy is Adam.  He’s four years old, loves to swim, play on the playground at school (really anywhere there’s one of those play structures actually) and motor around on his brand new trike.

He also can’t talk, struggles with walking and will have to deal with a developmental delay his entire life.  Adam has Angelman’s Syndrome (it’s often mistaken for Autism).  Essentially, there’s a missing link in his genetic chain that delays his development.  It’s actually a very common disorder according to his mom, Elke, who was kind enough to speak with GNPDX.

It also turns out, there is a lot of research underway in the battle against AS.  Adam is in line to participate in a number of studies …. some that could directly help him and a few others that could help other children with the disorder.

Here’s the problem, the studies are in different parts of the country.  While  Adam and his entire family desperatelywant to take advantage of these opportunities (both to help their son and the sons and daughters of countless other families) travel isn’t really an option.  See, four years of monstrous medical bills and the down economy have been murder on the families’ bank account.

So, they are rolling up their sleeves and hosting a garage sale, hoping to raise enough money for airfare and a place to sleep near the hospitals.

The cool part?  This isn’t just some minor sale.  Donations are pouring in from school and church friends to the event.  BUT, the family can always use more help.

Please, if you have electronics, dishes, toys, anything that is cluttering up your house and you think would fetch a couple bucks PLEASE get in touch with Elke Sprow right away and make a donation to help Adam.

And, if you are moving or are just looking for an affordable find, mark your calendar for June 27th and check out the sale itself.  Adam needs our help.

Info:  Saturday June 27th, 8A-3P

21108 NW Wapinitia Lane, Portland

Elke Sprow:  503-895-3279 / 971-226-4656

1 Comment »

  1. I have met Elke, Adams mom, when she came to pick up some things for the yard sale. I knew I would like her after a couple of phone conversations but when I met and spent some time talking to her in person, I was completely impressed. She is a mother…this is a family…that is willing to make any sacrifice needed to provide the best possible care for their son, to give him the best chances available for a normal and exciting life. Can you imagine knowing what you want and need to say but can’t say it…not even sign it because of the lack of motor skills? I hear Adam is a loving, giving little boy who puts others sadness’ first and always has a smile on his face. I am truly not sure I could do that under the circumstances he faces every day….being trapped in a body that won’t allow you to…..well…..be. There is a chance for Adam. A chance that there is a key to unlock the door that keeps him inside. I know that I am going to forward this site to every one I know and ask they help in whatever way they can…so here it is my friends….for anyone that ever said to me “I owe you” Time to pay me back. :) HUGS

    Comment by Phyllis — June 17, 2009 @ 3:43 pm

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