In many ways, Andrew Kriebel of DuBoistown is like any other 8-year-old boy. He loves jumping on his trampoline, swinging and spending time with his family.
But unlike most other children, Kriebel suffers from a rare neurological disorder known as Angelman Syndrome, which makes him prone to seizures, keeps him functioning at a 1-year-old level mentally and prevents him from being outside in the heat, according to his parents, Amy and Dean.
However, in an effort to provide Andrew with a space of his own to play in, the Kriebels are creating “Andrew’s Playhouse,” which will house his trampoline, two swings and wrestling mats in a temperature-controlled environment that he can enjoy year-round for “the rest of his life,” according to Amy Kriebel.
“There’s nowhere around here to take him (to play),” she said. “He can play in (the playhouse), get therapies there – anything.”
While the Kriebels run a foundation that helps special-needs children, the Andrew’s Special Kids Foundation, none of the funds or supplies donated to the organization go toward their son.
Therefore, the couple is asking for help from the community to complete the playhouse for Andrew.
The Kriebels already have received several donations from area businesses, including the heating and air conditioning supplies from Quality Air Mechanical in South Williamsport and excavation services from D and J Excavating in the city.
The Kriebels also said Your Building Center, which has a location on Arch Street in the city, and Glen Yoder, the project’s head builder, have been “fantastic” in helping get the project off the ground.
However, the project is in need of several supplies, including siding, roofing, electrical supplies and help with the actual building project.
More information about helping or donating can be obtained by calling Dean Kriebel at 971-6175 or Melisa Hunter of All Kids Training Resources at 320-7701.
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