I'm Abby. I am 9 years old and have Gaucher disease and juvenile arthritis.
At just 15 months, Abby was diagnosed with Gaucher disease, a hereditary condition marked by an enzyme deficiency causing various issues, such as visual problems, shortness of breath, pulmonary complications and persistent fatigue.
In her day-to-day life now, Abby has to deal with limited mobility and often experiences fatigue far more intensely than her young friends. In spite of it all, she shows great perseverance. At school, she has special accommodations, such as an adapted desk, chair and computer which allow her to attend regular third-grade classes.
In April 2024, Abby was also diagnosed with juvenile arthritis, adding new difficulties to her daily life. She is now followed by various specialists to help her deal with the pain caused by this disease. Despite these challenges, Abby is still a social, happy, generous, intelligent little girl. Her mother Geneviève describes her as a people person who is involved and a natural leader. People say she is wise beyond her years, as she is both sensitive and empathetic.
Abby speaks with surprising eloquence for her age. Her biggest strength lies in her ability to adapt to her difference. When times get tough, her determination and courage win the admiration of everyone who knows her.
Surrounded by her parents, her brother Damien and her dogs Marcus and Flavie, Abby fully enjoys the little pleasures of life: going for walks, playing, drawing and board games. She also continues to dream of taking dance and gymnastics classes, which shows her impressive zest for life and resilience despite her constant difficulties.
Thank you, Fondation Tremblant for support service at the Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts day camp!
For the families of our child heroes, participating in the 24h Tremblant is an opportunity to celebrate life, courage and hope.
Thank you for being an important part of this vast wave of solidarity!
You’re giving children hope for a brighter future through various programs and research projects funded by the 24h and its beneficiaries: Fondation Charles-Bruneau, CHEO Foundation, CHU Sainte-Justine Foundation, The Montreal Children’s Hospital Foundation and Fondation Tremblant.
Your donations matter. They make a real difference in the lives of Abby and thousands of children.