Baby Alana Prettyman celebrated her first birthday on Monday, September 14th! You may remember when DelmarvaLife shared Alana’s story back in July. She has a mitochondrial disease from a mutation of the bola-three gene.
It’s rare — and terminal. In fact, doctors didn’t think Alana would live to see her first birthday, but she’s proving them wrong and we hope she continues to do so.
The community outpouring of support for Alana has been unbelievable. So much so, that her family wants to give back. Alana’s family explains how you can help:
As most of you know, this 1st birthday is something the doctors thought she might never make it to. She has already touched so many lives of parents, friends and some children, but what we want to do is make an impact on children that are living the rough times. Alana can’t play with toys, and she has enough toys to interact with. So we want to do is help children deal with living the nightmare. Whether it’s just a bad dream that will go away, or a nightmare they won’t wake up from. We want to give to those children to help them enjoy life just a little more. And to those that might not make it to their next birthday.
We want to collect toys/games/learning/craft supplies (NO STUFFED ANIMALS) and make a huge donation to A.I. DuPont’s Child Life program. The Child Life volunteers go to children’s room and try to make them as comfortable as possible, trying to keep them occupied enough to keep them happy(ish). They do this by making crafts and memorable art, giving those books or a tablet to read. They bring toys or equipment like swings or high chairs for kids to use. Coloring books, rattles, learning tools and Barbie dolls. These new toys then belong to that child. It’s free gifts and they love it! Especially when some children don’t have their parents stay there because of their own circumstances.
We will also be taking donations for the Ronald McDonald House of Delaware.
I will have a donation box at:
Oceanova Spa 17 Atlantic Ave Ste 1, Ocean View, DE 19970
Yellowfin 33195 Lighthouse Rd Units 1 and 2, Selbyville, DE 19975
Paradigm Restaurant and Bar 12001 Old Vine Blvd. Lewes, DE 19958
I will pick up the donations and I will be driving all donations up and making a huge donation in Alana’s name. Help us, Help other kids! I know how successful this could be! The more the merrier. Christmas is around the corner, and I bet some gifts would really make their day. You can reach me, Alexa, through Facebook messenger if you have any questions. Thank you in advance.
Thank You & God Bless
Alexa, Kyle and baby Alana
Photo Courtesy: Leafo Photo
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