Florida Family Hosts Virtual Event
by Martha Castillo
We are grateful that the Castillo Family host a yearly fundraiser in support of the Foundation. This year’s virtual event featured a raffle and raised over $7,000! — Shira Johnson, PMSF Director of Development
When our family received Matthew’s diagnosis of PMS back in 2016, it took a while to process as we had never heard of this syndrome before. We were overwhelmed and so devastated with this news. Life definitely throws curve balls, and this was one that we did not expect. Raising a special needs child is the hardest thing we have ever done. At the same time, we are raising Matthew’s typical twin brother. It has not been easy for him especially being his twin and the special bond they carry. However, he has learned at such a young age how to have empathy and such a good heart. Our situation is not easy and day-to-day life has many challenges.
After taking it all in we decided to make lemonade out of lemons.
We knew we had to get involved and do what we could to help our son. Discovering the Foundation was such a blessing to us. The idea of fundraising seemed overwhelming at first, but we decided to take on the challenge. The first fundraiser in 2018 exceeded our expectations. There were so many friends, family and even strangers willing to help and support Matthew and this cause. This is when Team Matthew Luis was born and just kept growing ever since.
#teammatthewluis
This fundraiser is what motivates and drives us to do the best we can in the situation. It gives us hope for a better future. The Foundation is our safe space for Matthew and our family and we want to do whatever we can to take care of it. We are happy to support #pmsf in any way we can!
Matthew has taught us more than any book can. He is teaching us life lessons and has strengthened our family and made us better people. Although Matthew has many delays, we choose to focus on what he can do and never give up. His beautiful eyes and precious smile keep us going every day. He has impacted us more than we can explain. He has a beautiful soul and is so special.
We are #phelanlucky for him everyday.