Carter McGraw

MPS-1 Hurler Syndrome is a rare metabolic disorder that affects 1 in every 100,000 births in the United States. Essentially, people with MPS-1 are unable to produce the alpha-L-iduronidase enzyme. This means that someone suffering from MPS-1 will be unable to break down and recycle used Mucopolysaccharides (long chains of sugar molecules that are essential to the building of connective tissue throughout the body). The inability to break down these used materials causes them to store inside the cells; thus forming large accumulations in the organs and bones. These accumulations lead to developmental deficits in both physical and cognitive function, as well as, shortened life expectancy. Because of these developmental challenges – many Hurlers kids only live to be somewhere between two to twelve years of age.

While Life did not provide Carter the best of health. He was a true fighter and always managed to keep that smile on his face, even as he endured the many medical procedures. Carter always had a smile for everyone. His contagious laugh could be heard from everywhere, especially when he was watching his sister and brother play with him. Carter loved his collection of WubbaNubs, Bluey, his special nurse friends, and most of all his family. Although his time with us was short, he brought great joy to all who had the privilege to get to meet him.

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