“Jewelry, FROYO, and Oil” Help Child with Terminal Illness

Ella Sabine Casten (born on June 10, 2010) is a bright, energetic, and very personable three-year old.  Despite being confined to a power wheelchair that is 10 times her weight, she plays with her older siblings, attends preschool, participates in family activities, and captures the hearts of many.

Ella was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 2, which is the second most severe form of the disease.  Her motor neurons are slowly dying leaving her voluntary muscles without proper neural signals.  In turn, she loses use of her muscles and they atrophy (waste away) over time.  Respiratory muscles are also compromised which categorizes this disease as terminal since many children with SMA die due to respiratory complications.  The disease does not affect its victims intellectually; in fact, children with SMA are very bright; very intelligent.  Currently there are no treatments for SMA and there is no cure.

Ella’s parents, Michael & Lindsay Casten, have found themselves very fortunate in that they are surrounded by the love and care of family, friends, acquaintances, and strangers.  Since Ella’s diagnosis people have rallied around them.  In early 2012 fundraisers, along with other generous donations, helped the Casten Family purchase a handicap accessible vehicle allowing them to transport Ella and her power wheelchair.

Since that time Ella has been working hard at her many therapies.  She is growing, learning, and exerting her independence.  As the Casten Family grows they are realizing their house will not be able to support Ella’s many physical needs.  With this in mind, they have reached out for help.  Only this time it’s a bit different.

Michael & Lindsay own a small online jewelry business called Mama Bracelets.  When Ella was diagnosed they created the “Cure SMA” collection.  To date they have contributed over $3,000 to Families of SMA (FSMA).  While the "Cure SMA" Collection still exists, they have recently launched a whole new collection of bracelets, necklaces, earring, rings, and pendants.  They call this new line, “ellaWEAR Jewelry".  All proceeds from the sale of these items go into a fund for “Ella’s New House".    Others may participate in selling ellaWEAR Jewelry by hosting a personal or online party with the Castens, which brings in more people to help fund the cause.  To date, one party has occurred and generated over $500.  Three more parties are set to go.  There is one online party scheduled as well.

“We feel really good about being able to be a part of the fundraising efforts for our daughter,” says Michael, “knowing that we are actually doing something to raise funds for her needs helps us deal with this disease and its implications.  It provides us with a feeling of purpose and direction. ”

In addition to the ellaWEAR Jewelry fundraisers, others have also stepped forward to help.  Glen Ellyn (IL) based “Skinny Sweet Frozen Yogurt (FROYO)” hosted a one day fundraiser for Ella.  They donated a generous portion of their day’s sales to the fund.  Also, doTERRA’s “Spoiled by Oil” consultant, Zana Maxwell, has dedicated the month of November to raising funds for Ella through sales of her essential oils.  The promotion is called, “Oils for Ella” and carries with it many benefits for everyone.  Many individuals have also contributed to the "Caring for the Castens" fund.  As of early November (2013) the Castens have reached 14% of their set financial goal.

“It’s an indescribable feeling knowing that there are people out there, people that we’ve never met before, that are willing to help us to help our daughter.  Ella is a fortunate girl to have so many people looking out for her.” explains Michael.

If you are interested in hosting an ellaWEAR Party in person or online (and earn free jewelry for yourself) you can contact Mama Bracelets at: shop@mamabracelets.com

To view the entire ellaWEAR Jewelry Collection please visit: www.ellawearjewelry.com

To make a donation directly to the "Caring for The Castens" fund, please visit:  www.payitsquare.com/collect-page/16441