The Cade R. Alpard Foundation for Pediatric Liver Disease, Inc. (Cade’s Foundation) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization established in 2003 by Scott and Jennifer Alpard for the purpose of supporting and funding the various programs that will make a difference in the lives of children with liver disease. Our mission is to find a cure for pediatric liver disease through the support of research and education.

When Cade was first diagnosed with biliary atresia, we knew he would eventually require a liver transplant. We didn’t think he would need one this soon, but we are thankful he received a healthy liver and now can get back to being a normal, happy, active child.

During the rollercoaster of a year one of the most difficult parts was how helpless and frustrated we felt. The most difficult thing a parent can do is put the life of their child in someone else’s hands. Obviously, this is what was required for Cade to receive the wonderful and compassionate care that everyone at Texas Children’s Hospital provided (in spite of his occasionally demanding and frustrated parents).

During this ordeal, we decided we had to do something that would allow us to feel like we were involved or at least making some kind of difference. We met numerous families and got to know other brave, courageous, and beautiful children that had received a liver transplant or who had some type of liver disease. We felt that we could and should do something to make a difference in the lives of not only these children, and their families, but in the lives of others in the years to come.

In addition, we learned no other organization existed that was solely focused on finding cures for these devastating illnesses. As a result, we created a Foundation, in Cade’s name, focused on pediatric liver disease. It is with a great amount of pride and appreciation that we use Cade’s name for this worthwhile endeavor.