The story behind #CharlotteStrong

Michiana is rallying around a Rochester family whose infant was recently given a life-threatening diagnoses.

The Terry family said they have always dreamed of having children, but recently Parker Terry said that joy has turned into a heartbreaking reality.

Parker Terry said, “In that two years we lost four children to miscarriages and then we found out we had our baby miracle.”

Charlotte Terry was born against all odds.

Doctors didn't think Parker and Ellen could have children and then they found out they were pregnant.

In April, Charlotte went to the doctor for a follow up on an ear infection, and her parents were given terrible news.

Parker said, “The next morning we found out there were two brain tumors. Then later that day we found out there were multiple tumors in her spine.”

At just 8-months-old Charlotte was diagnosed with cancer.

Ellen said, "I don't think there are words to describe how painful it is to find out that the child you tried so hard to have has advanced stage cancer.”

The Terrys are taking Charlotte to Riley Children's Hospital in Indianapolis on Tuesday for a biopsy and to run more tests.

Ellen is a middle school band teacher at Peru Middle School. When her students found out about baby Charlotte they started raising money for the family.

Tyler Frazier said, “With us being so close to Charlotte, it's almost like having a little sister that's ill.”

Frazier helped organize a concert on Monday night at Peru Middle School where they gave the Terry family a check for over $600 to help pay for medical bills, according to their principal.  

Ellen Terry said, “You know as a teacher that you get to touch young lives and that's really why you do it. But I don't think until something like this happens you realize exactly how far your reach is.”

In just four days, nearly $6,000 has been raised on a Go Fund Me account that was created by a close family friend.

#CharlotteStrong is also trending on social media.  

The Terrys said their faith and community is helping them stay strong for Charlotte.

Ellen said, “I wake up from a nightmare and realize I'm still living a nightmare and the only thing that's been getting us through is knowing that God's in control.”

If you would like to help http://www.gofundme.com/v8rper8r
Share this article: