DERBY – Dozens of bikers gathered in Derby Tuesday night for a singular reason: to help get a 5-year-old girl to Walt Disney World.
Eva Grace Kelly of West Haven was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) when she was just 3 months old. SMA affects most of Eva’s physical movements, including the ability to breathe and swallow. Her family was told she wouldn’t make it to her second birthday.
“Each day is a blessing. We don’t plan too far in advance,” said Eva’s mother Missy Kelly.
They do have a big Disney trip planned because Eva adores all things Disney. It’s hard for her to smile as her muscle control diminishes, but watching Disney movies always brings a smile to her face.
“She’s really going to enjoy this,” said Kelly.
Members of the community who heard Eva’s story were inspired to help the family with their trip. They organized a Bike Night fundraiser at the Valley Diner in Derby. Dozens of bikers attended and they raised around $2,750.
“We have kids her age. It kind of hit home,” said organizer Dave Kuvan about why he held the fundraiser.
An organization called The Needs Clearing House is paying for flights and hotel rooms for the entire family and Eva’s two nurses.
“My girl, she fights. She has a lot of people pulling for her and I think that's made a huge difference. She really enjoys her life and it’s because of all the prayers, the well wishes, everything,” said Kelly.
If you’d like to help Eva and her family, you can donate here.
