Welcome to Kevin and Jackie's fundraising page for our son, Zachary and Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD)!

Once again Kevin and I will participate in the Walt Disney World Marathon, "Run For Our Sons".  Kevin will again in Jan. 2008 take the "Goofy Challenge", doing both marathons, the 13.1 mile half on Saturday Jan. 11th, then on Sunday Jan. 12th running the 26.2 mile full marathon.  I, Jackie will again participate in the 13.1 mile half marathon.  I choose the half because I want to live to raise my children.  Yes, both of us are very dedicated to this marathon and our cause, but Kevin is crazy!  This is why we all love him, he is a very dedicated and caring person, he will do anything for his family and friends.  Zachary knows the lengths we will go to for him. 

This year was a big turning point in our lives living with Duchenne.  On July 23, 2007 we took Zachary to Cincinnati Children's Hospital for a complete Spinal Fusion.  This delicate and tedious surgery has straightened his spine by placing two titanium rods the entire length of his spine, then branching off into his pelvis.  Some of you may be asking why Cincinnati.  It is simple, they are the best, we will accept no less for our son. Zachary was in the hospital for 12 days. His surgeon did a wonderful job.  Zachary really trusted her to take good care of him, and she did just that. This surgery not only straightened his spine and will relieve his back pain eventually, but took the pressure off his heart and lungs, enabling them to function well.  Kevin took a month off work, so that together we were able to learn new ways to care for Zachary. This time also allowed Kevin to modify some things in our home to assist in Zachary's care. Zach is doing very well considering what he has gone through.  His biggest dissapointment was when he was told he can no longer participate in P.E. class for 6 mos. to a year.  Also, that he must wear a full torso brace for approx. 6 mos.  Please keep Zachary in your prayers during this time, as he has faced and is conquering yet another Duchenne hurdle. 

Some of you have asked many times... what can we do?  Can we donate blood? Anything you need just ask, is what so many of you have generously offered.  Well we will take you up on your offer, by asking you to donate to this website in honor of Zachary. 

Thank you for visiting our Personal Fundraising Page. Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to make a contribution to our fundraising efforts. Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too!  If you are still not comfortable donating online, then please mail us a check to our home address, but make it out to PPMD.  We will be sure it goes toward our personal fundraising event in Zachary's name.  All of your donations are fully tax deductible as well.

If you will be donating by check or money order, again make it out to PPMD and mail it to us.

Kevin or Jackie Smith

4412 Gentrice Drive

Valrico, FL  33594

On behalf of Zachary, our family, and  PPMD we thank you for your love and generosity.