by Lane Roberts

Many families are often faced with the difficult task of caring for a child with special needs. For Jeff and Kari Porter, they’ve met the challenge head-on.

Residents of Castle Pines North (CPN) since 2001, the Porter’s daughter, Abby, was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder called Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) shortly after birth. Abby, now three-years-old, continues to struggle both physically and academically from PWS, a relatively unknown disorder that affects only one in 20,000. PWS is a complicated syndrome that creates constant obstacles for children that suffer from it including cognitive disabilities, behavior problems and a chronic feeling of hunger that can lead to morbid obesity.

The Porter family from the left Jake, Jeff, Abby, Anna, and Kari

The Porters have since refocused their lives to help others affected by PWS. After realizing more should be done to raise funds for PWS research, the Porter’s formed a new non-profit organization called Prader-Willi Syndrome Association of Colorado (PWSA). Jeff resides on the board of PWSA and Kari serves as Treasurer.

“PWS has changed our lives forever,” said Kari Porter. “Abby has touched many lives, including our own, and has made us better parents. She has helped us totally refocus our priorities and use our talents and resources to help eliminate this horrible syndrome.”

The Porter’s hope PWSA will help children with this disorder reach important milestones, while supporting important medical research.

Active members of CPN, the Porter’s have been involved with the Xcel power line committee and were instrumental in resolving the litigation issue with Hidden Pointe and the CPN Master Association. Jeff also serves on the Hidden Pointe HOA board. “Our favorite part of living in Castle Pines North is the people. We have wonderful neighbors and really feel a part of the community,” said Jeff Porter.

The Porter’s have two other children, Jake and Anna. Together, they enjoy skiing, family bike rides, hiking and spending time with family.

More information about PWSA can be found at www.stillhungryforacure.org.