A little boy named Lucas Testerman and his family are in a dilemma. Now, former WWL-TV newswoman Karen Swensen has put together a GoFundMe to draw attention to their story.
Lucas was born with a rare genetic disorder that makes it difficult to walk, learn and communicate. He has no eyes, and he relies on a gastrostomy, in which a long-term opening is made in the stomach, for the nutrition he needs.
However, none of this gets in the way of his passion: swimming.
Lucas’ mom said doctors told her he wouldn’t live past his first birthday. But, he defied the odds to see 11 years old. Swimming pools not only bring Lucas a great amount of joy, but they offer needed physical therapy as well, according to Swensen's GoFundMe.
Karen Swensen.
Lucas used to go swimming every day, but the Testerman family recently moved out of their condo and no longer have access to the pool.
Lucas’ parents are able to pay his medical bills, but a small therapy pool would cost about $30,000. The Testermans have already raised $10,000 from a different fundraiser.
The GoFundMe goal is currently set at $20,000.
The family lives in New York. Swensen learned about their story after an earlier GoFundMe raised money so a 90-year-old veteran could retire from his job. The former New Orleans TV journalist, who left the business in 2022, was contacted by someone who hoped Swensen could bring attention to Lucas' plight. After visiting the family, Swensen agreed.
To learn more about Lucas’ story visit GoFundMe.com