Leah is ONE year old!   We, as a family, have learned so much about Prader-Willi since that dreaded phone call we received when she was 6 weeks old, but we still have so much more to learn.  Leah is now thriving, reaching milestones, gaining weight typically, able to eat without a feeding tube, and overall pretty healthy.  Leah can light up any room she enters with her evolving personality and beautiful smile. We know that this phase of the disease does not last forever and that eventually, Leah will experience an insatiable hunger that will cause her to never feel full. Without close supervision, Leah could literally eat herself to death.  That's why, with your help, we want to find a cure for this terrible syndrome.  Together with the Foundation for Prader-Willi Research, we hope to fund the research to cure, or at least find a treatment to prevent Leah from feeling hungry all the time.    

We know that economic times are tough but any little bit you can manage will make a difference.  We would love for you to join our family  as we walk to find a cure for our little angel.    More details about the walk will be following.  This is the first walk for Prader-Willi in the Pittsburgh area and we are figuring this out as we go so any help, time, suggestions, etc are greatly encouraged and appreciated.  You are also encouraged to create your own One-Small Step page and raise money for the Foundation.  Together, we CAN help Leah lead a long, healthy, and happy life. 

Much love from the Benders.  We truly don't know what we would've done this last year without your love, prayers, and support! Thank you!!!

Travis, Jen, Luke, and Leah