BLUNDO

make a difference.’”

The Flemings and their supporters have organized a fundraiser, Let’s Flamingle for a Cure, from 2 to 6 p.m. on July 28 at The Shoppes at River Ridge, 4305 W. Dublin Granville Road. The event, to raise money for the Rett Syndrome Research Trust (reverserett.org), includes sidewalk sales, a silent auction, face painting, live music, a food truck and other attractions.

Techniques currently under study have shown promise in reversing the effects of the syndrome, but more research — and hence money — is needed.

The disease, which is not fatal, affects each child differently, but symptoms grow worse and then stabilize in alternating phases. Irritability, seizures, breathing difficulties, motorskill deterioration and autistic-like behavior are some characteristics of Rett syndrome. Natalie Fleming and her parents, Adam and Molly

But Natalie is more than her disease. Although she can’t walk independently, she rolls across the floor with her walker. The two words that resurface most often are “mom” and “more.” (She loves to eat.)

Sometimes — to her parents’ delight — she’ll say “Alice,” the name of the family’s golden retriever.

“You gotta celebrate the little things,” Mr. Fleming said.

Natalie is learning

to communicate with a device that sounds out words based on her eye movements. It’s a blessing, said Mrs. Fleming, but their fondest hope is that Rett research will make it possible for her to use her own voice to converse.

“We can’t wait for the day when she can actually talk to us.”