The Washington family has been through a tough couple of years. We
spoke with them and they recalled how quickly their son's health
declined. And now, they are discussing possible funeral arrangements for
their six year-old.
What looks like a casual Saturday BBQ with family and friends is really an emotionally draining battle with reality for the Washington family. Six year-old DJ is the second youngest of six children, and is battling Leukodystrophy, an aggressive brain disease.
"He's been unresponsive five or six times, and he just stopped breathing. And there's nothing more the doctors can do for him", says Michelle Washington, DJ's mom. "Just prepare for when that day comes, a prearranged funeral", Danielle Washington tells us, DJ's Dad.
But just three short years ago, DJ was just as active and energetic as his siblings, before he lost his ability to speak and control his motor functions. Now, his family is praying for a miracle.
"We took him to the doctor because he just continued to trip over his feet and fall after every two or three steps. After that we took him to a specialist and we found out he had an abnormal brain disease. It's been rough but we have our faith and that's the only thing to get us through, and regardless of whatever happens, we know he's going to be alright. He's our angel baby", Danielle tells us.
Doctors told the family that DJ's condition is degenerative, and the family has come together to raise money for DJ's funeral. But now, it's all about DJ and his favorite things.
"We are trying to see a smile on his face. He loves motorcycles and cars with rims, so we are gonna have a car show for him, and just try to make him as happy as possible", says Michelle.
Taking life one day at a time, the Washington family is doing everything they can to make DJ comfortable and enjoy every precious minute.
Danielle and Michelle also told us that at this point, DJ can communicate through hand signals and one or two words. There is currently no cure for for the disease, only therapy to help with symptoms.
If you would like to contribute to the family's fund, they have an account set up at Chase Bank with account number 997254024.
What looks like a casual Saturday BBQ with family and friends is really an emotionally draining battle with reality for the Washington family. Six year-old DJ is the second youngest of six children, and is battling Leukodystrophy, an aggressive brain disease.
"He's been unresponsive five or six times, and he just stopped breathing. And there's nothing more the doctors can do for him", says Michelle Washington, DJ's mom. "Just prepare for when that day comes, a prearranged funeral", Danielle Washington tells us, DJ's Dad.
But just three short years ago, DJ was just as active and energetic as his siblings, before he lost his ability to speak and control his motor functions. Now, his family is praying for a miracle.
"We took him to the doctor because he just continued to trip over his feet and fall after every two or three steps. After that we took him to a specialist and we found out he had an abnormal brain disease. It's been rough but we have our faith and that's the only thing to get us through, and regardless of whatever happens, we know he's going to be alright. He's our angel baby", Danielle tells us.
Doctors told the family that DJ's condition is degenerative, and the family has come together to raise money for DJ's funeral. But now, it's all about DJ and his favorite things.
"We are trying to see a smile on his face. He loves motorcycles and cars with rims, so we are gonna have a car show for him, and just try to make him as happy as possible", says Michelle.
Taking life one day at a time, the Washington family is doing everything they can to make DJ comfortable and enjoy every precious minute.
Danielle and Michelle also told us that at this point, DJ can communicate through hand signals and one or two words. There is currently no cure for for the disease, only therapy to help with symptoms.
If you would like to contribute to the family's fund, they have an account set up at Chase Bank with account number 997254024.
