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There were many times when my wife, Judy, and I almost lost our daughter, Rylae-Ann. The early years of her life were filled with medical emergencies, unanswered questions, and moments when the future felt painfully uncertain. Aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency is not a journey anyone…

Behind every child, especially a child with complex needs, are parents carrying unseen emotional weight. Our daughter, Rylae-Ann, was born with aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency, a rare neurological condition that shaped every aspect of our early parenting journey. While much of the focus rightly goes…

As we step into 2026, our journey with our daughter, Rylae-Ann, and aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency continues, but it looks very different from how it once did. For several years, our entire world revolved around her well-being. Every decision, every plan, every ounce of energy…

Every slight improvement adds up over time to something meaningful. For our daughter, Rylae-Ann, who lives with aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency, progress has never come from a single therapy or breakthrough. It’s been a collection of small, intentional steps. Recently, my wife, Judy, and I…

As our family gathers around the table on Thanksgiving, I know we’ll once again take a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come and how many people have helped us reach this milestone. Gratitude will take on a deeper meaning for us, shaped by love, sacrifice, and the extraordinary…

Within the community of people with aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency, we refer to the day of gene therapy as “Reborn Day” because it truly marks a new beginning. Our family celebrated our daughter Rylae-Ann’s seventh Reborn Day on Nov. 13. For my wife, Judy,…

Last week, Judy, my wife, and I had the privilege of attending the International Neurotransmitter Disorders Conference (INDConf), held Nov. 5-7 at Goodenough College in London. Nestled in the heart of Bloomsbury, the historic venue provided an inspiring setting filled with warmth, collaboration, and academic energy. The…

As parents of a child with aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency, my wife, Judy, and I have learned that balance is something we must constantly work to find. Between therapies, school, and everyday responsibilities, our family’s schedule can fill up quickly, leaving little room to breathe.