Meet Joshua Gritton— a Kosair Kid
"Doctors told us if it weren't
for Kosair Charities, Joshua wouldn't be with us today."
— Maria, Joshua's mother
Joshua Gritton was born June 17, 1991. Shortly
afterward, doctors discovered he had Common Varible Immune
Deficiency Syndrome. In other words, Joshua was born without
an immune system. The only treatment was a gamma globulin
blood infusion every 21 days. Without these infusions, Joshua
could be overwhelmed with an infection. His first five years
were a constant fight, even a scratch or skinned knee put
him at risk for an infection that could have ended his life.
Josh continued to receive the infusions regularly, until his
father changed jobs. The new insurance carrier refused to
pay for the infusions since they were a "pre-existing
condition."
Now Maria was faced with no coverage for
Joshua's life-saving treatments that cost approximately
$3,000 each. Even though Joshua's life was at stake and
Maria worked full-time, she could not afford the necessary
treatments. Fortunately, the family contacted Kosair Charities.
We evaluated their case and quickly approved payment for Joshua's
treatment. "I knew about Kosair Charities, but I thought they
only helped crippled children," said Maria. "They are my lifesaver.
They are wonderful."
Today, Joshua is no longer taking the infusion
treatments, but continues seeing the doctor on a routine basis.
Maria recently boasted, "Joshua was a straight-A 6th
grade student and will start 7th grade at Westport
Middle next year." He is actively involved in Boy Scout
Troop #309 and this Spring went on canoeing and camping trips
with his troop. Joshua has also recently taken an interest
in playing paintball and like most boys his age, he's
always eager to play!
Kosair Charities — Protecting
the most precious gift of all…thanks to the generosity
of caring people like you!
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