EBENSBURG — Four-year-old Mykenzie Brush has been fighting for her life since she was 6 months old.
The frail girl suffers from a severe form of mitochondrial disease, a genetic disorder that impedes her ability to transfer nutrition into energy. She has no digestive systems and must be fed through an IV tube.
For the past two months, Mykenzie has been in intensive care at Children’s Hospital in Pittsburgh because her syndrome has progressed and is now causing complications to her heart. Doctors are having a hard time regulating her blood pressure, and without a constant stream of medication she would die.
For Mykenzie’s mother, Jeanette Brush, the financial burden has been astronomical. The single mom spends 90 percent of her time at the hospital and because of that is unable to work.
As a way to help defray costs, an all-vehicle run will be be held Aug. 24, starting from Revloc Park.
“This is our second year doing this run,” said organizer Bob Romanish. “Last year we raised $7,800, and all the money we collect goes to the family.”
He added that more than 100 people took part in the run last year, and interest for this year’s event is high.
Cost is $15 per driver and $10 per passenger.
The run will consist of five stops along a scenic route, where prizes and gift baskets will be awarded.
“A trip to Las Vegas will be given way to one of the participants who makes the run to all five stops,” Romanish said.
Music, food and refreshments will be provided at the pavilion following the run.
Those who don’t want to join in on the run can still attend the festivities at the pavilion for $10.
“Rain or shine we are doing this,” Romanish said. “We're trying to do the best we can for this family.”
In the spring, Mykenzie had her dream come true when she was granted a 10-day trip to Disney World through the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
“That was the first time she was able to go because she has been so sick,” Romanish said. “If you see her, she is laughing and seems better than what she really is.”
To take part
• What: An all-vehicle run for 4-year-old Ebensburg resident Mykenzie Brush.
• When: Aug. 24, with sign-ups starting at 10 a.m. at Revloc Park, pavilion 2. The run starts at 12:30 p.m. Food and entertainment will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. at the pavilion.
• Cost: $15 per driver and $10 per passenger and can be paid on the day of the event.
• To help: Donations can be sent to Kim Brush, 1766 Strangford Road,
Blairsville, Pa. 15717.
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