One of Yazoo’s beloved Miracle Babies passed away last weekend, and her parents are determined to carry her memory and mission into the world.
Ray’Ah Charlise Young died last Friday, following 20 months of challenging health problems and struggles. But the young infant proved to be a miracle with her joy and smiles amidst her health diagnosis.
Ray’Ah was born on May 1, 2018 to Charlie Ray and Marlana Young. She was diagnosed with what is known as GRIN2B, which is a genetic disorder that causes developmental delay and intellectual disability. Symptoms may include low muscle tone, seizures, behavior problems including autistic features, abnormal movements and developmental regression.
And there are only 100 reported cases of the rare disorder in the entire world.
The Young family also hosted a GRIN2B Awareness Walk and Picnic at the Wardell Leach Recreational Complex to raise awareness and funds for research. Marlana said she used the awareness walk as a starting point to meet other families who are dealing with GRIN2B. The rare condition is even rarer among African-Americans.
Sadly, Ray’Ah’s young life ended too soon last weekend, but her family said they will continue her mission of bringing GRIN2B awareness to the community and the world.
“Though her journey was brief, she lad a lasting effect on the lives she touched,” the family said. “God gave her an assignment, and she fulfilled it in 20 precious months.”
Graveside services will be held tomorrow, Thursday, at 11 a.m. at Garden Memorial on Highway 3. In lieu of flowers, the family would like to donate items to prepare care packages to donate to LeBoheur Children’s Hospital in Memphis and Batson’s Children Hospital in Jackson.
For more information, call Marlana Young at 571-4598.
