Letter to the Editor: Tanner's Thank You

Dear Friends of Tanner,

When Mrs. Walsh and the Riverview Student Council approached me about fundraising for my grandson, Tanner, I accepted graciously. However, I am humbled with the magnitude of support it has promoted.

The generosity of many—including some of the businesses in Oakmont—has been overwhelming. I am writing to you today to thank you for your part in helping my grandson.

We learned on Feb. 14 (Tanner’s 5th birthday), that the NBIA (National Brain Institute of America) will provide the necessary funds for Tanner and his parents’ trips to Oregon. We also learned that because Pantothenate kinase-associated neurodegeneration (PKAN) is such a rare disease, that the group conducting the study needed more children in the study group and are linking with a study group in Europe.

This will enable them to better analyze the information they gather from the children receiving the new medicine. Therefore, the medical trial will not take place until sometime in July to give the European team time to get on board. Although we are disappointed that we have to wait longer, we understand that it is in the best interest of all the children involved.

I want to thank you for your contribution on Tanner’s behalf. All monies collected will be used to provide items for Tanner’s ongoing needs and care. There are many items we would like to purchase to help him be more mobile, independent and safe. Any money not used on Tanner’s behalf will be donated to the NBIA for Pantothenate Kinase-Associated Neurodegeneration research.

My husband, Richard, and I are proud to be lifelong members of this community and graduates of Oakmont High School. Tanner’s mom, Nicole, and I are truly proud to be employees of the Riverview School District and even more proud of the students, faculty and staff at Riverview Junior-Senior High School, Verner Elementary and Tenth Street Elementary. They have openly embraced my grandson and his needs and have provided our family with support that I couldn’t even imagine possible.

We are truly thankful and feel very blessed. Tanner is special to us and I know has touched your heart as well. Thank you from Tanner and his entire family!

In appreciation,

Sandy Savinda
Tanner’s Grandma