Keesha Stillman

This August, I’m not just skipping rope for fitness or fun — I’m skipping for Spencer.

Every day this month, I’ll be taking on the Jeans for Genes 100 Skips a Day Challenge to raise funds for the Children’s Medical Research Institute. But this isn’t just another challenge. It’s personal.

When Spencer was born 8th May 2024, we were excited and over the moon becoming a family of four, after the year we had already endured, what more could you want, our family was perfect and complete. A week later our family received news that changed everything: Spencer was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition called Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) — a condition that affects the muscles used for movement, swallowing, and even breathing. It was terrifying, overwhelming, and something no parent or loved one is ever prepared for.

Despite the fear of unknown, we found hope.

Thanks to groundbreaking research and a treatment called Gene Therapy, Spencer was able to access a life-saving medication. This single, extraordinary drug — worth millions of dollars — has quite literally changed the course of his life. It has given him the chance to grow stronger, to smile more, and to have the bright future every child deserves.

And that’s why I’m doing this.

Because without medical research, we wouldn’t have this miracle. And without funding, that research can’t continue — meaning other children might not get the chance Spencer has.

So each skip I do this month is for Spencer — and for all the children and families out there still waiting for answers, treatment, or even just hope.

Every dollar raised during this challenge goes directly to the Children’s Medical Research Institute, helping fund vital research into genetic conditions. It supports the brilliant scientists working on treatments, cures, and life-changing solutions. It helps create more stories like Spencer’s.

💙 If you can, please donate. Share. Talk about it. Support it in whatever way you can. 💙

Your support will help change futures. It will help save lives.

Thank you for helping me skip towards something that truly matters