Organized benefit to foot the bill of medical expenses for uncontrolled seizures

Mike and Karen Todd need to know what ailment causes their 6-year-old son to have seizures and soaring temperatures nearly every two weeks.

During those bouts, Trevor Todd slips into a comatose state that can last up to five days, his father said.

Trevor's parents — both Cook County sheriff's police officers — have taken their son to numerous doctors and specialists. But the only diagnosis so far — labeling his seizures as myoclonic, a form of epilepsy characterized by brief muscle twitching — doesn't explain Trevor's recurrent fevers, his father said.

"We're going to keep trying until someone figures it out," Mike Todd said. "We need answers."
Trevor has two brothers, Kody, 10, and Connor, 1. Trevor is an outgoing boy who loves SpongeBob, American flags and playing in water.

"He is a very loving, personable little guy," said his grandmother, Elleneen Todd, of Palos Park. "He loves to be hugged and kissed."

Trevor is mildly autistic and developmentally delayed. He will start school next week at Elim Christian School in Palos Heights, which specializes in teaching children with disabilities.
His schooling soon could be interrupted, however.

Trevor is on a waiting list for a clinical study at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Md. The study will take at least two months and require Karen Todd to take an unpaid leave of absence.

After the study, Trevor may be sent to other hospitals for additional tests and treatment, all of which could become a financial burden on the Todd family, his father said.

Trevor's family and friends are hosting a benefit Aug. 27 to raise money for his ongoing health care. The event will be held from 1 to 7 p.m. at 115 Bourbon Street, Merrionette Park.

Tickets are $20 and include food, beverages and live music. Raffles and a silent auction will be held. Direct donations can be made to Trevor Todd Benefit, TCF Bank, 9652 W. 131st St., Palos Park, IL 60464.