Alessandra Kathleen Chandler

     Alessandra Kathleen Chandler was born on July 10 1999, an answer to her parents' prayers after having no children in their seven year marriage.  To all outward appearances she was a healthy, beautiful, perfect baby girl. She did all the things babies are supposed to do at the usual times; she rolled over, sat up, began to crawl and was walking as a one year old.  She continued to progress in her second year, beginning to use some words and potty training.  At a well baby checkup at around the time of her sister's birth in June 2001 an alert pediatric resident noted some things, too subtle for an untrained eye, which prompted concern.  She initiated testing that eventually lead to a diagnosis of Rett syndrome; a genetic disorder that severely impedes normal neurologic development.

       Soon after, Allie started having symptoms that were unmistakably out of the ordinary.  She rarely slept more than four hours and would be up in the night crying and screaming despite her parents' efforts to help.   Drug therapies were begun that helped with the worst problems but Allie never spoke again and began compulsive hand movements that are a hallmark of RS.  In fall of 2002 she had her first seizure. More doctor visits, medications and therapies followed in an effort to manage this new difficulty. From then on her health fit a pattern of significant affliction followed by a recovery to a lesser degree of wellness and ability. She would be stable for months or years after one of these events and even regain capacities that had been absent for a time, but a subsequent decline would always take them away again.

      Though these challenges were miserable and draining for her and her family, Allie had great joy and happiness in her life.  Her delight in the things she loved would uplift the heart of anyone who saw her enjoying them. Swimming, jumping on the trampoline, riding horses, fluffy animals, french fries, cartoon movies, her sisters, friends and many other things gave her such pleasure and gratification that it was a balm for the harshness of her ailments.

      Alessandra had many helpers outside her family who gave compassionate support for which there are not words to express our gratitude. The Make-A-Wish foundation granted Allie a trip to Disney world when she was 8 that is a highlight of our memories. Just two weeks before she passed the Mascot Miracles Foundation held a prom for her that was a lovely celebration which she very much enjoyed.

      Allie's life was a continual exercise of faith, patience, longsuffering and gratitude. At the

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of Alessandra Kathleen Chandler, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.
To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Alessandra Kathleen Chandler, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.