Our son, Abrahiam Mathew, is two years old, and already, in his short, brief life, he's had to endure more pain than most people do in their entire lifetime.

He was born with a fatal, lysosomal disease known as Batten's disease.  It was passed on to him from both of us; seems we both carried the defective gene, and now, as a result, our little boy has to suffer.

When he was born, he was seemingly okay; however, a few months into his life, we noticed that he wasn't following objects with his eyes, and he started having seizures; we also noted that he seemed clumbsier than normal. Now that he is two, he is still walking, but for how long is anyone's guess.  He is also losing his vision, and it's scary to see or think of what may happen next. 

Our nephew, Caleb Patrick (my sister's child; he's six), has the exact same thing as our son; however, his disease has progressed to the point to where he needs total care.  He can no longer walk, talk, or even see:  he is totally dependent on others for his care.  It's as if he's reversed back to infancy; it's heartbreaking to see.

We don't understand why we were chosen to bear this cross, this cross of disease, disability, and heartbreak; however, we were, and now we must pick up that cross and go about our lives the best way we possibly can.  All we can do is pray, wait, and hope for a cure for not only Batten's disease, but any other lysosomal or neurodegenerative disease that's killed far too many innocent children before they even had a chance to live or grow up.

For the time being, we must learn to enjoy Abie while he is still able to see, talk, hear, walk.  We must thank God for every day he is able to do things and not worry so much about what lies ahead (although, at times, we can't help it, especially when we see my nephew).

Well, I am going to run along; Abrahiam is calling me, so I must see what he wants before he throws a duck fit.  Until later, this is his mom, Resa Cunningham, signing off.  Take care, and keep us in your prayers; we would really appreciate it!  Thanks in advance!

~Sincerely, Abrahiam's mom, Resa Claire Cunningham.  :)

P.S.:  We also have two other children besides Abrahiam:  four-year-old Regan Danielle and eight-year-old William Richard.  Fortunately, neither has Batten's disease, which is nothing short of miraculous!