About Us:
Carrie’s Heart & Hope was founded by Catherine & Ryne Slack after their daughter Carrie was born with a rare, genetic muscular disease affecting the RYR1 gene. Though her diagnosis limits her physical abilities, Carrie’s strength and spirit have become a powerful source of inspiration.
After spending a month in the NICU, the real journey began at home—navigating the daily challenges of caregiving, medical equipment, and home modifications. Through this experience, the Slack’s recognized how overwhelming and costly it can be for families raising children with physical disabilities.
Carrie’s Heart & Hope was created to be a source of support, relief, and encouragement for families facing similar circumstances. We provide assistance with medical equipment, adaptive devices, and home modifications that help children live with greater independence and dignity. Our mission is rooted in love, driven by personal experience, and sustained by the hope we have for every child’s future.
Mission Statement:
Carrie’s Heart & Hope is dedicated to supporting families of children with medical needs by providing essential equipment, assistive devices, and home modifications that promote safety, accessibility, and independence.
Vision Statement:
A world where every child with medical challenges has the freedom to thrive at home—with access to the equipment, modifications, and support their family needs to nurture independence, dignity, and joy.
Objectives:
- Provide Medical Equipment and Devices:
Supply families with necessary medical and assistive devices that improve the quality of life and functional independence of their children.
- Fund Home Modifications:
Assist with coordinating home modifications—such as wheelchair ramps, accessible bathrooms, and mobility-friendly spaces—to create safe and functional environments.
- Supportive Services for Families:
Offer guidance, resources, and emotional support to caregivers navigating the challenges of raising a child with medical needs.
- Raise Awareness and Advocate:
Educate the public and advocate for the rights and needs of children with disabilities, focusing on inclusion, accessibility, and family-centered care.
- Collaborate with Medical and Community Partners:
Partner with healthcare providers, therapists, and local organizations to ensure holistic support and access to necessary services.
Our organization was inspired by the life and love of Walter "Pete" Bailey, a man who embodied the true spirit of unconditional love and unwavering support. Pete was a father who never gave up on his son, Phillip, no matter how many times life knocked him down. From bailing Phillip out of jail to providing a home and driving him to rehab appointments, Pete's commitment to his son’s recovery was relentless. His belief in Phillip was the lifeline that kept hope alive, and ultimately, it was the catalyst for Phillip's recovery.
On December 4th, 1998, Phillip hit rock bottom and reached out to Pete for help. Without hesitation, Pete brought him home, supported him through outpatient rehabilitation, and attended AA meetings by his side. Through Pete's dedication, Phillip found the strength to turn his life around. Now, over 25 years sober, Phillip has dedicated his life to honoring his father’s legacy by helping others who are facing the same struggles he once did.
At All For Pete Sake, we understand that the road to recovery is not easy. It’s filled with challenges, both emotional and financial. That’s why we are committed to easing the burden for those in recovery by helping with bills, rent, and other essential expenses. We believe that no one should have to face the daunting task of rebuilding their life alone. Our goal is to provide the same kind of support that Pete provided to Phillip—compassionate, practical, and unwavering.
Whether you are someone in need of assistance, a family member looking for support, or a community member wanting to get involved, All For Pete Sake is here to make a difference. We invite you to join us in our mission to help others on their journey to recovery. Together, we can continue Pete’s legacy of love, hope, and recovery, one life at a time.