When Anthony received his diagnosis, he was only one of five children in the world with QARS, an extremely rare genetic disorder that began in utero. At 20 to 35 weeks gestation, Anthony suffered an in-utero stroke, causing Global Development Delay. He now faces a litany of illnesses, including Cortical Visual Impairment, epilepsy, cerebral palsy, and severe scoliosis. He needs to be tube-fed, is nonverbal, and has been using a wheelchair since the age of two.
But the 12-year-old has lived much longer than doctors imagined. He’s the longest surviving child with QARS, and he makes the most of it. He’s a fun-loving and happy boy in grade six. He loves music and horseback riding, swimming, playing baseball, and going to exciting sports games.
There is no cure for Anthony’s disease, so his family works to tackle each health issue as they arise. It has been a tough battle for Anthony’s parents and younger brother. “The effect of having a child with high needs is extremely hard on the entire family,” Anthony’s mom Ani says.
Anthony’s health is deteriorating with a weakening immune system, but the family is extremely excited for Anthony’s wish – a family trip to Los Angeles where Anthony will meet his extended family for the first time – and of course, visit Disneyland.
“Thank you Children’s Wish for granting this dream family vacation. This is an irreplaceable gift that we will cherish as a family,” Ani says.
Anthony’s most heartfelt wish will be granted by:
