PITTSBURGH — “She’s just trying to be strong for her son,” said Kristin Estok, co-founder of the online charity “Go Shout Love”.
Kristin came to Channel 11 to tell little Zane McCachren's story. She is the co-founder of the charity "Go Shout Love" and we were supposed to talk with her and Zane's mother, Cassie, at Children's Hospital.
Instead, this brave two year old, who is battling a rare genetic disorder, was rushed into emergency surgery early Thursday.
“He got phenomena and contracted a virus and he's just not doing well,” said Estok.
Zane was diagnosed with Trisomy 17 before he was born. He's had a breathing tube since birth and has been confined to a wheelchair. His mom stays home to care for him.
“She's scarified so much for Zane's care and his happiness and just wants to be there every step of the way,” said Estok.
And now Kristin's online charity is stepping in. It helps children with rare illnesses around the country. The support for Zane has expanded into a movement called "Cards for Zane." People have been mailing get well cards and sending e-cards on Children's Hospital's website.
“Teachers have been having their classes make homemade cards…that has been really great,” said Estok.
They have also dedicated the entire month of October to raising money for the McCachren family's medical costs.
“We are selling custom designed t-shirts. (Zane's shirt) says ‘Be Amazing Today.’ It's a phrase that's really special to him and his mom,” said Estok.
“Go Shout Love” has now helped six families around the country, but Kristin told me it's Pittsburghers who have amazed her.
“I was really excited that Zane was a Pittsburgh-based child because I knew they would show up big for him and they have,” said Estok.