Hey all...I don't normally do this, but I thought it was necessary to come here and ask you to support a student at our school with your prayers. His name is Alex, and he's a third grader. He is a triplet, with two sisters, Danielle and Kaitlyn. Kaitlyn was in my kindergarten class a few years ago. The kids are all very sweet, but just fragile little shells, with blonde hair and big blue eyes and not a lot of self confidence. They have an older sister, Erica. She's in seventh grade this year.

In August, Alex and his dad were playing catch in the yard. Dad noticed Alex seemed to be limping, and then noticed his speech was slurred. They took him to the doctor, and Alex has a rare disease called adrenoleukodystrophy, or ALD. He's been all over for all sorts of tests, but what he has is fatal. He's already in a wheelchair, his speech is affected, and he's not able to attend school. He's not expected to make it until Christmas.

On top of all this, Erica has been diagnosed with severe anorexia, and is now dangerously thin. She is currently hospitalized, so mom is with her while dad is home with Alex and the girls.

If you have an extra minute to say a prayer for Alex, Erica, and their family, it would be greatly appreciated. It's a very sad situation.

Mary I wish that whole family the best of luck, I hope everyone on the board can Pray for this family in need!!!! Take Care gillgirl IN PA.

Mary,I am so very sorry to hear the news about this family.Such a sad situation.My prayers are with them.Thanks for letting us know. God Bless.

Mary, that is so sad. I will keep the family in my prayers.

Wow Mary, what a hard thing they must be going through. I take solace in knowing that the Lord doesn't put on us more than we can handle. I know you said that Alex has a fatal disease, but the Lord, if it's his will, can heal him. I'm going to send up a prayer for that. I will also send up a prayer for Erica - wow, 7th grade and anorexic. What does that say for the world image today?

How sad, Mary. I can't imagine what this family is going thru. Is Alex in any kind of pain with this??? My prayers for Alex as well as his sister, Erica and the whole family. Please keep us up-to-date.

Here's an update, and it's not good news. Alex can no longer speak, although he does communicate with a "thumbs up" sign and his huge smile. He's uncomfortable in any sitting positon, and that pretty much leaves him bedridden. Of course, he's frustrated. And now he's in a lot of pain. It's really hard to even comprehend how this vibrant boy went from a happy eight year old to what he is now.

Erica is doing better. She is at home, but still receives counseling on a regular basis. Her eating is better, but she still has a long road to recovery.

Katelyn and Danielle are now realizing just how serious this is, and they are beginning to have a hard time with it. They don't say a whole lot, but they do mention it enough to know that it's really beginning to sink in. Of course, due to budget cutbacks, we no longer have a full time school counselor to help them through this difficult time.

I'm sure the family will appreciate your continued prayers. We are having a spaghetti dinner and benefit auction a week from this Friday. Thanks for your concern....

How sad for this family, Mary! My prayers go out to them!

Oma/Lois

Mary,
I can't imagine what this family must be going through. That is so sad. I will remember them in prayer, and hope for the best for all of them.