An 8-year-old girl in Queen Creek is living with a very rare genetic disorder and needs the community’s help.
Coffin Siris Syndrome is so rare, fewer than 200 people in the world have documented cases, according to the National Institutes of Health.
It affects Payton’s development both mentally and physically. Mentally, she’s like an infant and is completely dependent on others to move.
As she grows, it has become more difficult for her family to lift her in and out of the car. They really need a wheelchair accessible van that can accommodate Payton's needs.
“She loves living life, it’s just she has the unfortunate disadvantage of being in a broken mind and body. It’s important to us that we still allow her to live life," said Kim Merrill, Payton's mother.
A wheelchair accessible van costs about $50,000.
Church and community members are planning a fundraiser on May 20 at Queen Creek High School from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. to help raise funds. The event will include a pancake breakfast, silent auction, and bake sale.
The family has set up a donation page to help raise funds for Payton's wheelchair accessible van.
