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Benefit
to be held for Olivia Douglas
Cathy May, Contributing Writer
Olivia Douglas, the daughter of Jeff and Michelle Douglas of Holton,
is a 3-year-old with Deleted 18P Syndrome. This means the short
arm of her 18th chromosome is deleted causing her serious health
concerns, including Type 1 Childhood Diabetes.
In the fall of 2003 the Douglas found out they were expecting
their third child. From the beginning there were abnormalities in
Michelles pregnancy. The Douglas were told if their
little girl survived the birth, there would be no way they would
ever be able to take her home.
The specialist said her defects would at best mean she
would be institutionalized for the length of her life. Jeff and
Michelle were encouraged to abort the baby, but after much prayer
and research the Douglas decided to have their daughter.
Olivia survived and lives at home. She has a very low immune system
that has put her in the hospital many times. During the winter she
has to be kept away from potential viruses as her body has a difficult
time fighting them off.
Olivias mother Michelle, said there are only 100 cases of
Deleted 18P Syndrome in the world, most of them outside the United
States. She said Olivia is delayed mentally and only
says a few words.
The Douglas also have two boys at home, Jackson and Christopher,
who both suffer from a rare eye disorder. They are both legally
blind. Jeff Douglas has two older boys in the military. His oldest
son, Andrew, has already done a tour of duty in Iraq. Clayton is
in Australia awaiting his stint in the Gulf War.
On Friday evening, June 29 starting at 6:45 p.m. a benefit concert
will be held for Olivia and her family. All proceeds from this benefit
will go toward assisting the family with any financial concerns
dealing with her medical condition.
The benefit will be held at the Versailles Baptist Church located
at 228 S. Washington Street. The concert will include the Barnstormers,
Xtremity, Common Ground and Mitch McVicker.
Michelle said she is very thankful to the members of the Holton
Christian Church and the Versailles Baptist Church for putting on
the benefit for Olivia.
Besides the concert, there will be food, silent auctions, prizes
and fellowship. For more information contact Ronnie Deaton 689-4637
or Bob McCreary at 934-3136.
An account has been established at the Napoleon State Bank, Holton
Branch, in Olivias name.
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SUBMITTED PHOTO
One of Olivias favorite passions is music. She
enjoys playing the piano and moving to the music at home
and at church.
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