You want to make a real difference. But with so many causes and needs, it’s hard to know where to start. The Stanford family’s story shows exactly what your support makes possible.
Kennedy Stanford was diagnosed with MPS1 at just three weeks old. Her parents, Kayla and Luke, uprooted everything—trusting God and gut instinct to find the treatment that could save her life.
Her mom, Kayla, shares, “I was a brand new mom, barely home with my newborn, when I was told my baby had a rare disease. In that moment, I had to become a fighter—and Kennedy became my reason.”
Kennedy’s story is one of divine timing, gut instinct, and the strength of a mother’s love.
MPS1 is a progressive genetic disease that destroys organs, bones, and lives. Most doctors have never seen it. Without treatment, children may not live to see their teens.
Kennedy was diagnosed because Tennessee screens for MPS1 at birth. But many states still don’t. And even with screening, families are left to navigate confusing and urgent decisions—often alone.
You can change that.
A rare genetic disorder with no cure—yet. Caused by a missing enzyme, it leads to severe physical and neurological decline. Early treatment is critical.
Kayla followed a God-given instinct. She found a stranger online, a hidden trail of research, and a team in Minneapolis that would ultimately give Kennedy her best chance. Kennedy received a perfect-match stem cell transplant at just four months old. She was discharged in record time – 17 days after transplant – and has continued to defy expectations.
Her journey shows what’s possible when families have access to information, support, and HOPE. That’s what your gift provides.
May 30, 2018: Kennedy is born
June 20, 2018: Diagnosed with MPS1
October 8, 2018: Receives stem cells
October 25, 2018: Discharged after just 17 days
The Battle Behind the Smiles
Most people see a happy, thriving little girl. What they don’t see is the pain, the trauma, the constant monitoring, the lifelong uncertainty. MPS1 doesn’t end with one transplant. It continues to affect bones, teeth, eyes, and emotional health. Kennedy’s back pain, dental surgeries, and sensory challenges are daily battles. But her smile? That’s the face of victory.
Kennedy’s transplant saved her cognitive function and bought her precious time. Today, she’s in school, plays with her brother Cruz, and brings joy to everyone she meets.
But thousands of children still need diagnosis, treatment, and support. Together, we can write more stories like Kennedy’s.
The Cure MPS1 Project
The Kennedy Ladd Foundation is leading the charge toward HOPE and ultimately a cure. The Cure MPS1 Project funds:
Research into better treatments and gene therapy
Support for MPS1 families navigating the unknown
National advocacy for newborn screening and early intervention
With your help, we can rewrite the future.
Inspiring Hope. Creating Action.
Listen to Kayla share her journey – from heartbreak to healing. Your story could become someone’s lifeline.
What Your Support Makes Possible
Because someone shared, someone gave, and someone prayed—Kennedy is alive and thriving. Your actions today can do the same for another child.
Here’s how you can help:
Donate: Help fund life-saving treatment and research.
Share: Your post might lead to someone’s diagnosis.
Pray: Cover these families in strength and peace.
