Jim and Kristen Farrell have two children, Braeden and Kernan, both of whom have a progressive muscle-wasting disorder called spinal muscular atrophy (SMA).
The disorder can take away a child’s ability to eat, breathe, and walk. Essentially, according to their neurologist, SMA is similar to ALS, but in babies.
Kristen found out Braeden had SMA at 14 months, after noticing he could not support the lower portion of his body. At the time, Kristen was pregnant with Braeden’s little sister, Kernan. When she was born, her parents were stunned to find out she also has SMA.
Five-year-old Braeden has Type 2 SMA, whereas his four-year old sister has Type 3. Kernan can walk, yet Braeden cannot. Having children with SMA has been life-changing for the Ferrells and can very often become overwhelming. So their neighbors and longtime friends decided to help support the family. They created the Farrell Children SMA Fund to help cover medical costs, like Braeden’s Spinraza treatment, by way of donations and fundraisers, one of which took place in March of this year.
When you donate money to charity, not only are you making a difference in people’s lives; you’re also creating opportunities to meet new people who believe in the same causes that inspire you.
That, and making a real impact on those causes, can infuse your everyday life with more meaning. If you’ve been stuck in a rut, whether personally or professionally, sometimes the simple act of donating cash can reinvigorate your life.
Feel the joy of helping!
