Pennsylvania Fact Sheet
Loie seemed like a normal little girl after she was born. She loved to be outside, loved dogs and loved irritating her big brother Owen. It was not until Loie missed milestones in her first year (rolling over, crawling, balance issues) that her parents, Matthew and Lauren, noticed something may be wrong. Initially, Loie received a cerebral palsy diagnosis, but after showing signs of regression (difficulty standing, sitting, loss of balance and coordination) her parents were concerned. Doctors conducted additional testing, and on Christmas Eve they received the MLD diagnosis. Matthew and Lauren were told to spend as much quality time with Loie as possible, as she would likely not live beyond the age of five.
Over the next 13 months, the Hammonds researched MLD and worked
closely with specialists and therapists to provide Loie the best possible
care throughout her courageous battle with MLD. They spent time making every moment count and creating memories with their family. Loie lost her battle with MLD on January 27, 2014 at the age of 3 ½.
