It began with a simple belief: when life changes suddenly through illness, injury, or unexpected hardship, no one should have to navigate it alone. At its heart, Fund a Life exists to ignite hope for families in the space between crisis and stability. The organization grew from founder Mark Howell’s own experience with how quickly life can change and how important it is to feel supported in those moments.

Through the support of people like you, Fund a Life has been able to step in for local families during some of their hardest seasons, offering relief, stability, and hope when it matters most.

One of those families is the Bartoo family.

After years of dreaming of becoming parents, Kayleigh and Danny welcomed their son, Beau, a moment filled with joy and long-awaited love. But soon after his birth, that joy turned into uncertainty when doctors discovered Beau was facing serious, life-threatening medical challenges.

Within weeks, they found themselves living in hospital rooms, balancing overwhelming medical needs with the realities of everyday life. Then, at only 41 days old, his parents received news no family is prepared to hear: Beau would be discharged home with hospice care, with an expected lifespan of less than six months.

But Beau, whose name means beautiful, has continued to defy expectations.

With constant care, therapy, and the devotion of his parents, Beau has grown stronger. Today, his care team is hopeful he may reach 18 months. Each day he is here is a gift his family treasures deeply.

Caring for Beau requires around-the-clock support. Kayleigh made the difficult decision to remain home to care for him full time, while Danny took on overtime shifts to keep their household afloat, often sacrificing precious time with his son during a chapter they know is fragile and irreplaceable.

That is when Fund a Life connected with the Bartoo family.

Through the support of people like you, Fund a Life was able to provide a grant that eased immediate financial pressure and allowed Danny to be present with his family when it mattered most.

When he learned of the support, Danny shared, “This means I can work less overtime and spend more time with my son while I still can.”

When the grant was delivered, Kayleigh shared that it gave their family something they had not felt in a long time: hope for their future. Beau’s story is one of courage, love, and resilience. It is also a reflection of what is possible when neighbors choose to show up for one another.

Fund a Life exists because people choose to care for one another.

 To learn more about our mission, the families we serve, and how to join our Hope Giving Community, scan here.