Melissa & Jody Copp

Melissa and her husband, Jody Copp, reside in Waco, TX. They are raising their sons, Calan (9) and Lawson (6), who both were born with a rare genetic condition that is life threatening and dramatically affects their ability to stand and walk on their own. They endured a long and arduous diagnostic battle lasting six and a half years, going all over the state to try and find out what was causing their medical condition. It was discovered that the condition was caused by the a genetic mutation of the PNPT1 gene which is directly responsible for the mitochondria in the body which produces all of our “life energy” to our bodies. The condition is so rare that there are only 11 known cases throughout the world and no known cure or treatment. Their journey to find a fully accessible home called HOPE has taken them through tremendous hardships but in the end they find joy together as a family. Melissa and Jody have dedicated their lives to improving their children’s abilities while supporting the lives of other families who are also RAISING WHEELS.