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 Michelle’s 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.

Olivia’s 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 Olivia’s name.
SUBMITTED PHOTO
One of Olivia’s favorite passions is music. She enjoys playing the piano and moving to the music at home and at church.