Fund-raiser Aug. 11 for a girl with a rare genetic condition.
by Jim Langham Feature Writer
PAYNE-When John and Maria Roddy received a critical diagnosis for their daughter, Gabby (Gabriella),they grieved, but also prayed that as long as God would allow her to be with them, they would do all that they could to make her happy.
When Maria was carrying Gabby, there was indications that the child could be handicapped in certain ways, but it wasn't until the baby was 4 months old that she was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition, Muscle Eye Brain Disorder(Born with out the top of her brain)She also has dysphasia and infantile glaucoma.
Since her birth three years ago, Gabby has undergone hospitalizations for various reasons, including seven eye surgeries, two brain surgeries, G-Tube placement and teeth removal. "She has weak muscles, similar to a newborns" observed Roddy. "She cant sit, walk ,roll, or stand. She has an implant on her left eye because of the pressure. She went to the Cleveland Clinic to get her eye contacts.
"The brain matter that is there is like a cobblestone brain" commented Roddy. "It doesn't have the texture of a normal brain." At first doctors didn't think that she would make it past three months and then six months. Then her birthday came: 14 physicians said that she shouldn't exist, that she would never be able to show emotion. we just kept praying that she could have the best quality of life under the circumstances"
Roddy said that through prayer things have come to the place where the length of her life doesn't matter as much as the quality.
"When God wants her He will take her," observed Roddy. "It took me a long time to come to terms with that."
As word spread in Payne of Gabby's condition and the amount of money needed to care for her, community residents came together to plan an event to help support the need of caring for the young child.
Finally it was determined that an annual Good Times Saloon Poker Run would be utilized to raise funding for the young child. The activities to raise funds include a poker run, bake sale, silent auction, scavenger hunt, frozen T-Shirt contest, live music by Josh Denning and pulled pork dinner.
The run will be held on August 11, with all activities either being held or originating from the Good Times Saloon. Sing-up for the run is between 11Am-noon and cost $20 for the rider, and $10 for the passengers.
"We would like to help with the daily cost of her living" commented Amanda Morehad, who is on of the organizer of the event. other major organizers include Mike Denning and Terel morehead. "They take trips to Akron and Toledo for specialist" said Morehead. "based on a suggestion for a speech therapist, the family would like to purchase an IPad to help enhance Gabby's communication skills"
Special even times include bake sale 9am, silent auction 9am-7pm, scavenger hunt 1-4, frozen T-Shirt contest, live music by Josh Denning and a pulled pork dinner. Entrance free for the scavenger hunt is $5 per individual, with four people on a team. the pulled pork dinner, for those who have not signed up for the run is $2.50 per sandwich and $6 a meal. The meal consists of pulled pork, baked beans and macaroni or coleslaw.
Morehead said that she learned of Gabby's story while reading Roddy's blog. "i read her blog and realized they don't get that much help," said Morehead." She talked about her kids have to wait to get things because of Gabby's needs. Here they are, putting their sibling ahead of themselves, making that sacrifice.
"We hope that this fundraiser can help take some stress off of the family, because her kids have been such really good kids. We want to make sure that the kids can have something too. When I read about how they were sacrificing to help Gabby, it brought me to tears. they are really a deserving family," said Morehead.
Other elements of the fundraiser include sale of T-Shirts for $15 and live music by Josh Denning the in the evening.
In addition, those attending are encouraged to save and bring pop tabs.
"All of this has made me see every day as a gift" noted Roddy. "I've been counting my blessings,learning to live and appreciate the moment rather looking so far ahead. it has made me a better person, friend, and family member. Life isn't worth all of the drama we try to put into it"
"Our kids were selfish, now they are selfless, Since Gabby was born, they've realized the value of giving" continued Roddy.
To ask questions or donate, contact Morehead at 419-406-0597 or Mike Denning at 260-348-5456. There is also a facebook site, www.facebook.com/GivingforGabby.
*This is word for word what Pastor Jim wrote! : D I did this so those unable to read the paper can view about the benefit! Thanks again to all my family and friends! What a great community we live in!
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