I have found MANY families (parents and individual adults) seeking alternative treatments for various disorders including parents of children with CP and adults living with Cerebral Palsy.  I think I can make a statement that is all inclusive that the goals are about finding alternatives to IMPROVE QUALITY OF LIFE!

I knew a grandfather who had custody of his grandchild.  He created so many new contraptions to help her, it was incredible to witness. He was amazing. He knew as her caregiver what she needed and when they couldn’t find something they could buy he made it.

I know no matter what challenges a child is facing parents worry about what will happen to their children without them.  I mean what is the role of a parent other than to prepare their child for adulthood? For some families that is significantly more complicated than for others.  By quality of life is not I am not referring to a fancy house or clothes and gourmet foods or video games. Its walking talking, toileting, showering!  Communicating needs and wishes!  I am sure the list can go on. How many parents out there have been told “your child will never…. Walk, see, talk, FEEL and EXPRESS.  I commend those parents out there seeking alternatives to improve the quality of life for their child(ren). We are all on different journeys. With every diagnosis what comes is this, "What works for one child may not work for another."

This story is about one young boy’s journey of hope. His name is Jacob. He is 5. Jacob is diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy, Cortical Visual Impairment, due to the damage done in the brain his optic nerves were underdeveloped,  and Seizures. His mother and father share his story as his journey of hope continues.

I have never met a more loving family and I am honored that they allow me to share their story on Hope Magazine Online and to be a part of their fundraising efforts to return to China for stem cell treatments. I sincerely hope that all who hear and read about Jacob, will see the angel this young boy is and support their endeavors anyway they can. Please email us here at if you would like to help even if you are not in Illinois and we will connect you with the family or you can go directly to their site at Caring Bridge. Hope Magazine Online cannot collect any donations, all donations must be sent to the address listed.

Disclaimer:  Publication of this story and treatment plan should not be considered a recommendation by Hope Magazine Online as results are not typical and can vary. The information presented on this site is not intended as medical advice. Its intention is solely informational. There are amazing stories out there but please consult a medical or healthcare professional before starting any new treatment or therapy. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. There have been reports of several clinics that are not good ones. I can’t legally list them there but there are many support groups out there for stem cell treatment and therapies, please take the time to visit them and talk to others.

., Editor

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jacob’s Journey of Hope continues...

     January 12, 2009 was the beginning of an Amazing journey to China. Not only did Jacob receive the highest level of medical care, the entire family was blessed to have been part of a great learning experience. Jacob’s trip was made possible by the overwhelming love and support from friends, new and old.

    Jacob has grown into a happy, rambunctious little boy who loves to play with his brother Cody and his dog Ringo.  In 2004, during the initial visit to a Pediatric neurologist, we were told that Jacob would never be able to show any emotion. To date, he is lovable and shows everyone how much love he has to give. Jacob has not stopped proving the Doctors wrong!! He is a truly an inspiration and he leaves a lasting impression on everyone he comes in contact with!!   Jacob continues to receive therapy two times a week and is making consistent progress.  Jacob is learning new words everyday and is starting to put two and three words together. Jacob is now also able to make some of his needs known.

     Dr. Mike of the Xioshan Hangzhou hospital was very pleased with the post treatment progress while in China, that he recommended another set of injections within the next year. The first set of injections laid the groundwork. The second set will continue to accelerate cell regeneration in Jacob’s brain. A second treatment is typical for young children since the brain acts like a sponge during the first 5 years.  Our goal is to continue on Jacob’s journey of Hope by returning to China for the second set of injections.  While Jacob has made significant strides it is imperative to continue on to improve his quality of life with the ultimate goal of independence. Stem cell research in the U.S. has begun; however, there are no signs of these procedures being offered in the near future. Many families from around the world continue to travel to China for the sake of their children.

     We understand times are tough right now. Any donation large or small will have a direct and immediate impact on the quality of life for Jacob and are greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,

The Ralphson Family 

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Mail your donation to:

GIVE JACOB A CHANCE FUND

10442 S. SACRAMENTO

CHICAGO, IL 60655

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Please watch for fundraising events over the summer!

If you are a business and would like to sponsor this page, 50% of the cost will go to Jacob's Fund!

Email Us

Please read Jacob's first story with us from last year.

Jacob's Journey

Keep coming back to check for fundraiser info:

Kick off is 06/27/2010

Formal Fundraiser set for 09/12/2010