Charley's Angels VACTERL Foundation

Empowering Families,
Providing HOPE 🌟

Join us in our mission to support and empower families affected by VACTERL Association. Together, we can make a difference

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How Can Charley's Angels VACTERL Foundation Support Your Family?

We understand the unique challenges that come with VACTERL association. As a rare condition, VACTERL disease often lacks the attention, studies, and resources necessary to support those affected. We have firsthand experience with the...

-expenses,
-the difficulty in finding help,
-and the loneliness

that comes with navigating through those tough nights. Our foundation was formed in memory of our little angel, Charley, to provide the support and resources that families need.

What we're about...

Supporting Affected Families:

Our foundation is here to assist families affected by VACTERL association in any capacity necessary. Whether it's through providing financial assistance, connecting families with medical professionals, or offering emotional support.

Guiding Through Rehabilitation and Recovery:

We understand that the journey doesn't end with a diagnosis. We are here to help families navigate the rehabilitation process, recovery, and daily living. Our goal is to make this journey as smooth and manageable as possible.

Dedication to Research and Innovation

We are committed to supporting individuals and organizations in their efforts to conduct research, foster innovation, and enhance education about VACTERL disease.

How we got here

Hello everyone! My name is Jeremy Higginbotham, Santana Higginbotham's husband. I am the Co-Founder and the awerness and support head for Charley's Angels VACTERL Foundation Inc. First, let me say thank you to all of our followers and VACTERL families for being here to help support us. We could not do it without you and your support.

Charley's Journey and Our Mission
Charlotte (aka Charley), our youngest of 8, was born with VACTERL and underwent 19 surgeries in 17 months, including 3 open-heart surgeries. Despite it all, she lit up every room with her smile. Charley fought through so much and never let anything keep her down.

Before Charley, my wife and I had never heard of VACTERL. We felt lost and alone. Our friends and family helped, but it was overwhelming. Even the doctors struggled to know what to prioritize for her care. My wife learned all she could and often had to guide the doctors to look at the bigger picture. It was a daily struggle for answers.

After Charley’s 3rd heart surgery, she contracted two viruses. She was released from the hospital the next day, but 6 hours later, she passed away with no answers.

Raising Awareness and Supporting Families
We believe Charley came to us for a purpose. We had never heard of VACTERL, and many doctors hadn’t either. We want to change that. Our goal is to bring awareness to this rare syndrome and make sure no one feels alone like we did.

After a year of work, we officially launched Charley’s Angels VACTERL Foundation Inc. in March 2023. We want to connect VACTERL families, share stories, and ensure no child goes without necessary medical supplies. We also want to offer emotional support and relief from the stress and heartache. Thank you to all our VACTERL families, donors, supporters, doctors, nurses, therapists, and board members. Without you, none of this would be possible. YOU ARE NOT ALONE! God bless you and your families.

Come Meet Us and Have Some fun

Our events are more than just a good time—they’re a way to make a real difference in the lives of families affected by VACTERL. By joining us, you’re not only raising funds and awareness but also providing vital resources that help these families thrive. Your participation helps shine a light on VACTERL Association and fosters a community of hope, support, and connection.

What You Can Expect at Our Events:

Bowling Nights: Fun and friendly competition for all ages, perfect for family outings or date nights.
Raffles & Silent Auctions: Amazing prizes ranging from local gift baskets to exciting weekend getaways.
Cash Bash Giveaways: Try your luck with one of our exciting cash bash events where multiple winners walk away with cash prizes!
And much more.

Upcoming Events

How Our Events Help Families:

Connecting Families with Specialists: Our events help families meet the right doctors and specialists who can provide critical care and advice.
Transportation Assistance: Many families struggle with transportation to vital medical appointments. Your support helps fund rides for those in need.
Resource Networks: We guide families to resources like support groups, financial aid, and educational materials, empowering them to navigate their unique challenges.
Medical Supplies: Funds raised provide access to necessary medical equipment and supplies that can significantly improve quality of life.
Emotional Support: These events bring families together, creating a network of mutual support, encouragement, and shared experiences.

Together, we can make a difference while having a blast! Come out, join the fun, and help bring hope to families affected by VACTERL.

Want to stay updated on our events, giveaways, news, and more. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter below. Also follow us on any of our socials to keep up to date with things we are doing.

What is VACTERL

V Vertebral Defects

A Anal Atresia

C Cardiac Anomalies

TE Tracheo- Esophageal fistula

R - Renal (kidney) anomalies

L Limb abnormalities

This rare disorder affects multiple organ systems and presents a unique set of challenges for each individual diagnosed.

Multisystem Involvement:

About 60% to 70% of individuals with VACTERL Association have anomalies in three or more of the VACTERL systems (Vertebral, Anal, Cardiac, Tracheo-Esophageal, Renal, and Limb).

Gender Distribution:

The disorder affects males slightly more often than females, with a male-to-female ratio of about 1.5:1. Although females statistically have more severe symptoms.

Prevalence:

VACTERL Association occurs in approximately 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 40,000 live births, making it a rare condition.

Get Involved

Support Our Mission

Every contribution, big or small, makes a powerful impact on the families we serve. Your generosity provides essential resources, connects families to specialists, and helps fund life-changing medical support for those affected by VACTERL. Behind every donation is a foundation built on love, care, and a shared commitment to making a difference. We deeply appreciate every dollar given, as it brings us one step closer to brighter futures for these families.

Suppot our cause

Help us make a difference by donating a specific amount of your choice to our organization. Your generosity fuels our mission and impacts countless lives.

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Email Us Directly

We understand that not everyone can donate, but there are still many ways you can contribute to our mission! By signing up for our news and updates, or following us on our social media channels, you help spread the word and raise awareness for VACTERL. Your support in sharing our cause helps us gain recognition and grow our community ❤️.

Charley's Angels VACTERL Foundation

Non-Profit Organization

Berkeley Springs, Wv.

(304)-494-7120 Email

Empowering Families, Providing HOPE 🌟