Create a Spark
Every fundraiser has the power to create real impact for children and families affected by VLCAD deficiency and related long-chain fatty acid oxidation disorders (LC-FAODs). By hosting a community fundraiser or making a donation to Maddie’s Spark Foundation, you help accelerate rare disease research, raise awareness for VLCAD deficiency, and support efforts to improve the future for children living with these disorders.
From lemonade stands and birthday fundraisers to school events, sports teams, workplace campaigns, and community gatherings , every effort helps fuel progress toward better treatments, earlier diagnosis, and a cure. Rare diseases are often overlooked, but your support helps bring visibility to the VLCAD community and reminds families they are not alone in this journey.
Together, we can turn awareness into action and create lasting change for the future of VLCAD research.
Be the Spark in Your Community!
Maddie’s Spark Foundation Inc is a registered Pennsylvania nonprofit corporation and recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a tax-exempt public charity under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Donations to Maddie’s Spark Foundation are tax-deductible to the fullest extent permitted by law and help support VLCAD research, awareness, advocacy, and family support initiatives.
Share Your VLCAD Story
At Maddie’s Spark Foundation,
we believe every story matters.
If you are living with VLCAD, are a parent, caregiver, family member, or someone whose life has been touched by VLCAD, we invite you to share your story with us.
Your experience can bring hope, comfort, and connection to others in the VLCAD community. Whether your journey is just beginning or you have been navigating VLCAD for years, your voice has the power to help others feel seen, understood, and less alone.
We welcome stories about:
Receiving a diagnosis
Daily life with VLCAD
Parenting or caregiving experiences
Challenges you have faced
Milestones, victories, and moments of hope
What you wish others understood about VLCAD
There is no “right” way to tell your story. It can be long or short, detailed or simple. What matters most is that it is yours.
If you’re interested in sharing your story, please complete our form. Once submitted, one of our Maddie’s Spark Foundation Board Members will reach out to connect with you and learn more about your experience. Together, we can explore ways your story may help inspire, educate, and support others in the VLCAD community.
Your voice can make a difference, and we would be honored to hear from you.