A Newcastle family is seeing an outpouring of support as they seek help to purchase a specialized chair for their 2-year-old son battling severe medical challenges.
Ryan and Kelsey Corbin are the parents of four boys. Their two-year-old son, Kyzer Corbin, was born with severe hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), and now faces a series of challenges like Mixed Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy. The severe condition requires specialized equipment to keep him comfortable and included in family life.
CORBIN: Donations for equipment helps Kyzer be engaged with the family
The family, however, often has to pay out-of-pocket for the costly equipment due to insurance not covering the needed tools. The Corbin’s friend, Abby Whitaker, launched a GoFundMe to help the Corbin family purchase a $2,500 P Pod chair which would allow Kyzer to sit safely and participate in activities with his three brothers.
In an outpouring of support, the family has received more than $10,000 in donations to help in less than a week.
Whitaker said, “Kyzer is the most angelic, cuddly, and loving presence.
“His bright eyes and sweet nature bring joy to everyone who meets him.”
She said Kyzer’s conditions affect his ability to control his head, arms, legs, and trunk, and he requires specialized equipment to keep him comfortable and safe.
“Kyzer’s days are filled with therapy, medical appointments, and the sounds of his three crazy yet adoring brothers, Kruz, Kreed, and KJ,” Whitaker said. “This sweet family always wears a smile on their faces, striving to make life as magical and connected as possible for all of their boys.
“Their biggest challenge is finding equipment that allows Kyzer to sit comfortably and be as engaged as possible with their family.
“They have faced issues trying to provide Kyzer with the resources he needs. They have been denied essential equipment by insurance, including a bath chair, a Special Tomato Chair and base, and a Rifton Activity Chair. Each denial seems like another roadblock in the efforts to give Kyzer the basic support that allows him to thrive.
“This leaves them relying on out-ofpocket expenses for items that are vital to his well-being — expenses that quickly add up.”
Whitaker said the purchase of a P Pod chair would provide the postural support Kyzer needs to sit comfortably and safely, and would allow him to be positioned upright so he can join his brothers during family activities and meals.
“Kyzer’s current equipment doesn’t meet his needs, leaving him uncomfortable or isolated. The P Pod chair would be life-changing for their family — it’s more than a chair; it’s a way for Kyzer to be included. It would also provide peace of mind knowing he is safe and supported,” Whitaker said.
Whitaker said the Corbin family is not asking for pity or praise — but a partnership.
“Every dollar brings us closer to providing Kyzer with this essential piece of equipment,” she said. “Let’s come together and pour back into a family that pours their hearts and souls into our community and our children.”
As of Tuesday, November 26, the Go-FundMe account had raised 144 donations for a total of $10,865. For community members who would like to give, go online to the GoFundMe page entitled “Help Kyzer Corbin Thrive.”
It can be found at https://www.gofundme. com/f/helping-kyzer-corbinthrive.
Donors have responded to the Go-FundMe fundraiser by filling the need for Kyzer. And now the Corbins will be able to work toward filling other needs, as well.
Whitaker said, “Thank you for helping keep the magic alive at Christmas time for the Corbin Family.”
