Stella Violet Butler-Rodriguez (a.k.a. Speckleshine) was was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension, or PH, at the age of two and a half. Being a recipient of this message, you probably already know Stella's story. You already know that she is strong and spirited, funny and brave. You also know that we almost lost her in November of 2010 because of a severe pneumonia and infection, and she has additional challenges as a result. Most importantly, you know that she thrives despite these challenges. She's enjoying kindergarten at the Mount Washington School, she practices ballet, enjoys horseback riding, and loves to go swimming (thanks to her new dry suit that keeps her central line safe and dry).
Two years ago, our family walked in the Baltimore Walk for Hope to raise money for Pulmonary Hypertension awareness and research. Our goal at that time was to raise $750 and we surpassed that goal by $3! This year we want to do more, and we are hoping that you'll help us.
In case you don't know about PH...
Pulmonary hypertension is a rare, often misdiagnosed disease. The disease causes high blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries. This makes it harder for the blood to flow through the lungs to pick up oxygen. This causes potentially life-threatening consequences such as right heart failure. When diagnosed in time, there are treatments that may halt disease progression and improve quality of life. At this time there is no cure; but we believe through research we will find the cure for PH. Please help us raise money to find a cure!
The best place to learn more about PH is the Pumonary Hypertension Association website at: http://www.phassociation.org/
Donating through this FirstGiving website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support 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!
Stella, Simon, Dawn, and Carlos