Alyssa Dapolito
 |  Brave Like Beck Foundation

STUART — Beckham Willett, a local toddler in Stuart, survived an incredibly rare genetic disease (so rare there are only 17 known cases in the world — all ending in terminal outcomes).

The prognosis was devastating.

Some of the world’s leading specialists told his parents there was no chance of survival.

Beck beat all odds and survived, capturing the attention of doctors from literally around the world. Geneticists from Israel and Australia are now working with Beck’s fibroblast cells to launch research that could lead to gene therapy, potentially changing the future for other children with his disease.

On top of this rarity, this story inspired local restaurant owners, Rick and Taylor Wilson of The Gafford and Palm City Social, to host a benefit to raise money and awareness for the family. Dozens of Stuart and Martin County businesses donated auction items and hundreds came in attendance to show support.

In one night, we raised over $100,000.

We quickly learned that so many families right here in Martin County are going through similar challenges and need the support. After the benefit, we went on to create a foundation, Brave Like Beck Foundation, in the spirit of Beck, who is my nephew, and because Brave Like Beck is more than a story about one child… it’s a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the extraordinary compassion of our Martin County community.

The foundation’s mission is simple yet profound: to bring hope, healing, and tangible help to families facing the most difficult days of their lives. Brave Like Beck exists to make sure no family feels alone in the fight.

On Monday, Sept. 29, Palm City Social will once again host a benefit night, this time in honor of the Brave Like Beck Foundation. The evening will celebrate Beckham’s incredible resilience, honor the courage of other children, and give the community a chance to continue the movement they started.

For more information, to purchase tickets, or to learn how to support the Brave Like Beck Foundation, visit www.bravelikebeck.org or contact alyssa@bravelikebeck.org.