Freshman at Lexington High School Rallies ‘Bike 4 Life’ for Rare Disease

Lexington, S.C. – Freshman Hannah Vitters Leads Fundraiser for Batten Disease

A Lexington high school student is making a difference in her community by organizing a fundraising event to support research for rare genetic diseases. Freshman Hannah Vitters was inspired to take action after her 8-year-old cousin was diagnosed with Batten disease, a life-altering condition.

Hannah’s cousin, Jack Timmerman, was diagnosed with Batten disease over a year ago, at just 7 years old. The rare genetic disorder has been slowly impacting Jack’s vision, leading to significant challenges for him and his family.

Family’s Determination to Make a Difference

Jack’s parents, Jamie and Ned Timmerman, along with their extended family, including Hannah, were determined to raise awareness and funds for Batten disease research. Hannah, who is a freshman at Lexington High School, wanted to find a way to support Jack and other individuals affected by rare diseases.

“He’s always loved biking, we always went to Hilton Head, and he would ride the tandem, we would ride our bikes next to him so I really wanted to do something that he could still enjoy even while he didn’t have vision,” said Hannah Vitters.

‘Bike 4 Life’ Fundraiser

To support her cousin and raise funds for medical researchers, Hannah organized the ‘Bike 4 Life’ fundraiser. Families in the community came together on Saturday to ride bikes and raise money for the Ronald McDonald House.

“They have such an amazing program, they help so many people and I wanted to do something that not only impacts Batten disease patients but everybody who is struggling with a child illness or disease,” Hannah explained.

Community Support and Appreciation

The response from the community has been overwhelming, with many individuals showing their support for Hannah’s initiative. Ned Timmerman expressed his gratitude for Hannah’s efforts, stating, “To see the response from the community in general has been overwhelming but when it becomes your 15-year-old niece that is leading, not just for Jack but for the Ronald McDonald House and showing what the heart of our community, it’s really humbling, and I’m amazed by her.”

Elizabeth Atkinson, Director at Ronald McDonald House, praised Hannah for her dedication and leadership, saying, “Hannah did an amazing job, she’s a young girl that saw a need and wanted to jump in and help.”

Through ‘Bike 4 Life’, Hannah Vitters has not only raised awareness about rare genetic diseases like Batten disease but has also shown the power of community support and collective action in making a positive impact.

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