When Eric and Samantha Rovinetti learned that they were pregnant with their first child, they were overjoyed. They could not wait to welcome baby Adrianna into the world. But shortly after Adrianna’s birth, the tables turned and the family was faced with a significant challenge. As reported by Patch, Adrianna was diagnosed with severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID).
Since Adrianna’s diagnosis, her parents had to stop going to work; doctors were too concerned that they might bring something home that could severely harm their daughter. Her parents have been working to schedule Adrianna’s treatment. This treatment will include both chemotherapy and bone marrow transplantation. The GoFundMe, created for the family by a family friend, shares:
During the 6 week or more procedure, which will take place in Boston, Sam and Eric will be unable to work and must essentially move into a hotel to be close to Adrianna [which could be up to $1,800 each week]. Unfortunately, there isn’t much set up through the hospital as far as living arrangements for parents.
Therefore, the GoFundMe is designed to raise money to support the family through Adrianna’s medical expenses, as well as other expenses required during this time.
If you would like to contribute to the GoFundMe, you may do so here.
What is Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID)?
Severe combined immunodeficiency refers to a group of rare congenital diseases with little or no immune response. There are multiple genes associated with SCID. When these genes mutate, they affect immune cell (T and B cells) function and development. As a result, those with SCID often experience recurrent bacterial, fungal, and viral infections that can be life-threatening. SCID manifests in infancy. It is most common in those of Turkish, Navajo, or Apache descent. Symptoms may include:
- Recurrent and treatment-resistant pneumonia, meningitis, ear infections, blood infections, chronic skin infections, and yeast infections
- Hepatitis
- Diarrhea
- Rashes
- Poor weight gain
Stem cell transplantation in the first three months of birth can help provide the best outcomes.
