Michael

This is 8 year old Michael Ecker. Michael was born with a rare genetic disease called Angelman Syndrome. People with Angelman Syndrome have difficulty with balance and some only learn to master 5-10 words in their lifetime. Michael has never spoken. Another characteristic of the disease is a happy-go-lucky demeanor and frequent laughter. his mother Barb said, "Through it all, all of the challenges and obstacles, he's a really loving boy and that's the silver-lining."  

In about a week and a half Michael and his parents will travel to Tampa, FL to participate in the first human study of using an FDA approved antibiotic (tetracycline) to try and help with some of Michael's symptoms.