At 6 months of age, Joseph Jr. was diagnosed with Sandhoff Disease (a severe form of Tay-Sachs). Sandhoff disease is a rare genetic disease resulting in the progressive deterioration of the central nervous system. It progressively destroys nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Most children who acquire the disease do not live past the age of 3. There is currently no cure for this devastating disease.

Parents, Joseph and Laura dedicated every moment to the care of Joseph, Jr. , and made the most out of every single moment that was given to them. Taking care of a child with this type of genetic disorder is a full-time job. Besides Joseph Jr. they also make their home with children Destiny Parker, and Blake & Audrey Pello.

Update:

Shortly after we chose Joseph Jr. as our 2010 sponsor child we received news from the family that Joseph Jr. passed away. Joseph Jr. lost his battle with Sandoff Disease on January 18, 2010 at 22 months of age. While we wish there was something we could do to ease the pain and sense of loss that has encompassed the family, our goal is to help the family in any way we can. Despite the loss of Joseph Jr. we have decided to keep him as our 2010 sponsor child and help the family get back on their feet, financially, from the debt that built up while caring for Joseph Jr. Please help us to help this family.