Help send boy with Guillain-Barre to Disney World

Staff report

NILES

The Tyler Platt Fighting Strong Foundation has been formed to raise money to send Tyler Platt and his family to Walt Disney World in Orlando.

The 9-year-old Niles boy was diagnosed with Guillain Barre syndrome a year ago and was partially paralyzed throughout his body. Guillain-Barre syndrome is a serious disorder that occurs when the body’s defense system mistakenly attacks part of the nervous system. This leads to nerve inflammation that causes muscle weakness and other symptoms.

Afterward, Tyler learned to walk again, feed and dress himself.

He was told he wouldn’t play sports again, but he fought to get out of his wheelchair and back on the field again and played baseball and football, according to Susan Ramsey, one of the foundation’s organizers.

The foundation’s first event will be the Pumpkins for a Purpose Festival from noon to 5 p.m. Oct. 13 at the Beechwood Playground, 2270 Beechwood Ave. in Alliance.

It is open to the public, and there is no admission charge. Pumpkins will be available for a donation. Other activities include a bake sale, Chinese auction and children’s activities.