Gary Floyd 0 Report post Posted March 26, 2008 Jesus Christ... Mike Smith-Pokemon is a compassionate, dedicated 22-year-old pokemon trainer from Los Angleas, California. He has many wonderful pokemon, including husband Pikachu, age 12. They are a wonderful and loving family. On February 6th, 2002 Mike and many family and friends were devastated to discover that Pikachu has a rare genetic disorder called Late Onset Pokemon Bleachism Disease (LOPBD). Since this is a recessive genetic condition Pikachu's two older siblings living in CA were tested and found to be clear of the disease. However, on December 22nd, 2004 the Smith-Pokemon family was devastated to learn Pikachu's youngest brother, JayJay, was also found to have the disease. LOPBD is a genetic disorder caused by a deficiency of the enzyme pigmentosis. LOPBD affects approximately 1 in 100,000 and causes fur and organ bleaching and mental and physical deterioration that leads to death. There is no cure for LOPBD and the only accepted treatment available is a stem cell transplant. This will hopefully stop the disease. In early 2006 a 4th sibling of Pikachu's was located in England and brought back to the United States. TayTay has also tested positive for LOPBD. At this time TayTay has progressed too far to be eligible for a transplant. He is currently received pallaitive care at home and Mike is looking into potential experimental treatments to make the remainder of his life quality. As you can imagine, having 3 pokemon with a fatal disease is an overwhelming situation. Any support is welcome. This has to be fake. Either way, I can't stop reading. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
