Scarlett Hicks is a three-year-old girl who battles generalized epilepsy, autism, global development delays, and a rare genetic mutation called BRAT1. Her mother, Jas Hicks, discovered the terminal nature of Scarlett’s condition through online research after being dissatisfied with the lack of answers provided by doctors. Scarlett’s condition is extremely rare and most people with the BRAT1 gene do not survive infancy. Despite this grim prognosis, Scarlett has been able to reduce the frequency of her seizures with medication.
Scarlett’s family of five has been devastated by her condition, with many tearful nights spent watching her on a seizure camera. The family was denied financial assistance from the Saskatchewan Ministry of Health when they needed to travel to Toronto for treatment. They are now facing the daunting task of raising $250,000 for trial treatments in the United States. The family has organized fundraising events, set up a GoFundMe page, and received support from the community. Despite the challenges, they remain hopeful and are determined to find a way to save Scarlett’s life.
Tiffany Hoffman, a family friend and fundraising organizer, is working tirelessly to help Scarlett’s family raise the necessary funds for her treatments. She describes Scarlett’s bond with her daughter, Amelia, as incredibly special. With a current fundraising total of $16,000, the family is still working towards their goal. The support from the community has been overwhelming, and the family is grateful for every donation, big or small. Hicks sees this experience as an opportunity to meet new people and help others facing similar challenges.
The journey has not been easy for Scarlett’s family, but they are determined to fight for her life. Hicks emphasizes the importance of community support in their fundraising efforts, as government assistance has been lacking. Despite the hardships, the family is united in their goal to give Scarlett the best possible chance at survival. The experience has brought both challenges and opportunities for Hicks, who sees it as a chance to make a difference in the lives of others facing similar struggles. Above all, she is committed to doing everything in her power to ensure Scarlett’s well-being.
Scarlett’s condition has presented a significant financial burden for her family, who have had to sell personal items and rely on the generosity of others to cover the costs of her treatment. The family’s journey has been marked by both sorrow and hope, as they navigate the complexities of Scarlett’s rare genetic mutation. Despite the uncertainty of their situation, the family remains determined to do whatever it takes to give Scarlett a fighting chance. Through their fundraising efforts and the support of their community, they are working towards a brighter future for Scarlett.