Meridian infant fights for her life

By By Penny Randall / staff writer
May 28, 2004
Five-month-old Candace Tuggle is fighting for her life.
Candace has been diagnosed with leukodystrophy type Krabb disease and is currently at Duke University Children's Hospital in North Carolina with her parents, Randy and Jessica. Candace is undergoing medical tests to see if she is a candidate for a cord-blood transplant which could save her life.
A benefit car wash to raise money for Candace's medical costs will be Saturday, from 8 a.m.-1 p.m., at Black Eagle Karate Center on Highway 19 South.
Fuller said that she is also planning an event "Light a Candle for Candace" on June 9 at Dumont Plaza in downtown Meridian.
The family is due back from North Carolina on Saturday.
Leukodystrophy refers to progressive degeneration of the white matter of the brain due to imperfect development of the fatty covering that acts as an insulator around nerve fiber.
The most common symptom of a leukodystrophy disease is a gradual decline in an infant or child who previously appeared well. Progressive loss may appear in body tone, movements, speech, ability to eat, vision, hearing and behavior. There is often a slowdown in mental and physical development.
An account has also been set up at Great Southern National Bank for Candace. The public can send donations to the bank: 218 22nd Ave. South; Meridian MS 39301. Make checks payable to Jessica Tuggle for Candace Tuggle.
There is a Web site set up for Candace. The address is www.caringbridge.org/ms/candaceangel.
Want to help?
What: Benefit car wash for Candace Tuggle
When: Saturday,
8 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Black Eagle Karate Center, Highway 19 South
What: "Light a Candle for Candace"
When: June 9, 7 p.m.
Where: Dumont Plaza in downtown Meridian