Allison

Allison is a happy, busy, talkative girl who many call "a ray of sunshine" because of the joy she can fill a room with. She and her twin brother, Austin, are a blessing.

Life has been hard for her because of propionic acidemia. Allison was the first child diagnosed with this disorder in 10 years at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, thanks to newborn screening. She has been hospitalized many times. Allison currently sees specialists in genetics, gastroenterology, physical medicine, behavioral health, and cardiology. It's not surprising that one of her first big words was “stethoscope!” Allison LOVES to sing and is joining choir this year. She also loves to dance, play, do puzzles, play in water, and watch cartoons and videos on the iPad.

~Michelle, Allison’s Mom

Propionic Acidemia

Propionic acidemia is an inherited disorder in which the body is unable to process certain parts of proteins and lipids properly. It is classified as an organic acid disorder, which is a condition that leads to an abnormal buildup of particular acids known as organic acids. Abnormal levels of organic acids in the blood, urine, and tissues can be toxic and can cause serious health problems.

In most cases, the features of propionic acidemia become apparent within a few days after birth. The initial symptoms include poor feeding, vomiting, loss of appetite, weak muscle tone, and lack of energy. These symptoms sometimes progress to more serious medical problems, including heart abnormalities, seizures, coma, and possibly death.

Artist: Thanaseth Raksuthakarn