Create a Spark

A young girl wearing a Pittsburgh Pirates baseball jersey standing in front of a large mascot statue of a smiling pirate head.
Four stylized stars, one large pink star in the center and three smaller yellow and white stars around it, on a black background.

Every act of kindness can spark something powerful. By hosting a fundraiser or donating to Maddie’s Spark Foundation, you help raise awareness for VLCAD deficiency and support families navigating rare metabolic disorders.

From lemonade stands to birthday fundraisers, backyard BBQs to school spirit weeks, your idea can become a Mighty Spark that spreads Maddie’s message of love, kindness, and courage.

Maddie’s spark reminds us that even the smallest act of kindness can make a big difference. Your fundraiser turns that spark into real support for families affected by VLCAD deficiency.

Create a Spark in Your Community Today 

Start a Fundraiser
Donate Now
Become a Partner

Maddie’s Spark Foundation has incorporated as a nonprofit corporation in Pennsylvania and has applied for recognition as a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. While our application is pending, individuals and organizations interested in supporting VLCAD research may make tax-deductible donations through UPMC Children’s Hospital Foundation’s Patient Family Engagement donation page.

Share Your VLCAD Story

A family of three, including a man, woman, and a baby girl, outdoors during fall. Both adults are kissing the baby on the cheeks. The baby is wearing a pink headband with a large flower and a floral dress, held by the woman.

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.