Elk River Lions

To whom it may concern,

Lucia Markey is a cute little 11 month old who was born with a rare genetic disorder called Primary Hyperoxaluria. It is a condition where the liver is missing an enzyme that causes it to over produce oxalate. The oxalate combines with calcium to form    calcium oxalate crystals in the blood and the crystals have now calcified her kidneys resulting in end stage renal (kidney) failure.

Lucia’s kidneys can no longer eliminate the excessive oxalate. When oxalate levels in the blood rise, it can deposit onto other tissues and organs such as the eyes, heart, gastrointestinal system, bones and small blood vessels. This is called oxalosis. It can cause pain, discomfort, and eventually death.

The cure is a liver transplant and because of the damage it has done to her kidneys, Lucia will need a kidney transplant as well. In the meantime, she is being treated at the U of M with intensive hemodialysis 7 days a week. The dialysis filters her blood to    remove the oxalate crystals and help her body remove extra water and wastes that a     normal healthy kidney would do.

Lucia’s primary source of nutrition is through a feeding tube as she tends to easily vomit and lose her appetite. She needs to gain enough weight to be considered for surgery. She has multiple medications and will need them for the rest of her life.

Lucia’s mother is a pediatric nurse who has taken a leave absence to care for her. Her father has reduced his work hours to assist with Lucia’s care and tend to her 4 year old brother.

The Elk River Lions have paired up with the Markey’s neighbors for a fundraiser.  Any support that you could help us with will be greatly appreciated.  We are having a       silent action at the benefit.  Any items you can donate will be welcome.  A thank you list will be on the Elk River Lions website, along with more information about this    fundraiser. 

Sincerely,

Lion Willy Weicht

President

Elk River Lions