Provide Handicap Accessibility for Lucas' Care

My brother and sister-in-law, Mike and Evelyn Rice, have been foster parents for 6 years and have cared for over 14 children. Many of the children they have taken in are medically fragile and would otherwise be in a hospital setting.

They have recently adopted three-year-old Lucas, who has been with them since shortly after birth. Lucas has a diagnosis of SLC13A5 epilepsy, a very rare form of drug-resistant epilepsy. He has had frequent episodes of status epilepticus (a sustained seizure) varying in length from 20 minutes to over two hours. During his first three years of life, Mike and Evelyn have called an ambulance and accompanied Lucas to the hospital over 35 times, most of which required lengthy hospitalizations. Lucas receives a lot of therapies at home and has a large team of doctors. At 3 years of age, Lucas can roll over in one direction, but he is not able to sit, crawl, or stand independently. He is nonverbal but is beginning to learn to use buttons on a communication device which allows his family to understand his needs. He is a joyful little boy and the Rice’s are committed to giving him the best life possible and providing for his needs in their home. Unfortunately, due to Lucas’ profound disabilities, carrying him up and down the stairs (to their current bedrooms) is not realistic long term. The Rice’s require a first floor bedroom for themselves and Lucas. Due to the frequency of Lucas’ seizures, Mike and Evelyn cannot sleep on a different floor from Lucas. Their hope is to add on a downstairs bedroom and handicap accessible bathroom that will meet Lucas’ needs long term.

Lucas has come a long way and despite his fragile condition, is a happy, smiley boy. He loves seeing his family and friends and lights up when you sing to him. Mike and Evelyn are dedicated to giving him the best life possible and being able to provide for his needs in their home. Any amount donated is appreciated and will go towards the goal of making their house more accessible for Lucas.