Saratoga Springs family’s foundation keeps 4 ½-year-old’s memory alive
A Saratoga Springs family who lost their child has channeled their grief into a force for good.
Jake Straughter was born a healthy, happy baby, but he had his first seizure at about 8 months. There was specialist after specialist and long hospital stays.
His parents, Heather and Brian, were heartbroken when the 4 ½-year-old passed away suddenly. It wasn’t long after that they started a charity to help others who are suffering from debilitating illness. It’s called “Jake’s Help from Heaven.” They provide adaptive equipment, things like special bicycles or iPads and software to help communicate. They also give funds to families to cover expenses related to medical needs and appointments.
In the past 13 years, they’ve awarded $1.6 million. They’ve also recently started a podcast called “A Place of Yes,” named after their approach to helping families who ask for help.