About Us
Rooted in Love. Driven by Hope.
Maddie’s Miracles began with one little girl’s story—but it has grown into something much bigger.
Founded in 2019, our non-profit is based in Reading, PA and was created in honor of Maddie Nordhoy, a remarkable young woman born with Wiedemann-Steiner Syndrome—an extremely rare genetic disorder. In Maddie’s case, the condition has led to multiple disabilities. She is non-verbal, unable to walk, and relies on a feeding tube. And yet, her presence has inspired so much love, strength, and purpose.
Our Mission
We work to improve the quality of life and outlook for children with profound special needs—and for the families who care for them. Our focus is on children impacted by severe neuromuscular conditions like muscular dystrophy and cerebral palsy, as well as other rare genetic disorders.
We provide life-changing assistance, including:
- Home modifications
- Handicap-accessible vans and ramps
- Specialized medical equipment
- Support services for overwhelmed caregivers
Caring for a child with complex needs is a full-time job—and often a lifelong one. We exist to lighten that load and remind families that they’re not alone.
ABOUT MADDIE
How It All Started
Maddie’s Miracles was born out of a personal journey—one filled with challenges, love, and the unwavering desire to make a difference.
Our story begins with Maddie Nordhoy, who was born with Wiedemann-Steiner Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that affects many aspects of her life. Maddie cannot walk or talk and requires 24/7 care, specialized equipment, and ongoing support to meet her daily needs.
As her family navigated the complex world of hospitals, therapies, insurance battles, and accessibility barriers, one truth became clear: they were fortunate to have the resources and support that so many families simply don’t.
That realization sparked something powerful.
What if they could help others walking a similar path—but without the same means? What if Maddie’s life could be the spark that brings hope and help to others?
In 2019, that “what if” became Maddie’s Miracles. Founded by Maddie’s parents and powered by their community, this nonprofit is a promise to turn compassion into action. Every ramp installed, every accessible van delivered, every miracle completed circles back to Maddie and the love that started it all.
Who We Are
We’re a small but mighty team made up of family and friends with personal ties to this work:
Erik is the proud father of five children, including his daughter Maddie, whose journey inspired the creation of Maddie’s Miracles. Over the years, he has walked alongside his wife Sue in navigating the complex challenges of caring for a child with severe disabilities—late nights, countless doctor appointments, and the specialized medical equipment often needed but not always covered by insurance.
Recognizing how fortunate their family has been to provide Maddie with the care she needs, Erik felt called to extend that same level of support to other families in the community facing similar struggles. Together with Sue, he launched Maddie’s Miracles to help ease those burdens and provide hope.
When he is not dedicating his time to the mission of Maddie’s Miracles, Erik is busy running a global business and cherishing time with his children.
Sue is the proud mother of five children, including her daughter Maddie, who inspired the creation of Maddie’s Miracles. Through her journey raising Maddie, Sue has firsthand experience with the challenges of caring for a child with severe disabilities—navigating medical equipment often not covered by insurance, managing countless doctor appointments, and balancing the stress, uncertainty, and daily demands that come with complex care. All while ensuring her other children feel equally supported and loved.
This journey has fueled Sue’s mission: to support other families in the community facing similar struggles. She brings a wealth of knowledge in navigating insurance, coordinating with healthcare providers, sourcing specialized medical equipment, and—most importantly—building meaningful connections with families who understand the weight and beauty of this journey.
When she’s not working tirelessly on Maddie’s Miracles, Sue enjoys quality time with her family—whether it’s taking Maddie for a walk or a swim, heading to the gym, or creating special moments with her other children.
Maren is the oldest of Sue and Erik’s five children and the proud big sister of Maddie. Growing up, she witnessed firsthand the level of care, dedication, and love required to support Maddie—and how difficult it can be for families to access the resources they need.
When Maddie’s Miracles was founded, Maren felt called to be part of the mission. What began as helping plan the very first event quickly grew into a central role within the organization. Today, she helps oversee the foundation, coordinating everything from annual fundraising events and financial organization to marketing efforts, family nominations, and the delivery of each miracle—with the support of Kareena and the many dedicated volunteers who make it all possible.
Outside of Maddie’s Miracles, Maren works full time in advertising and marketing, and enjoys life in her local community with her daughter and pup, Obi.
Kareena is a dedicated special needs caregiver with a big heart and a knack for making a difference. Armed with both an Associate and a Bachelor’s degree, she combines knowledge and compassion to bring care and support to those who need it most.
As the Assistant Director of Maddie’s Miracles, Kareena helps lead life-changing miracles that create a lasting change for individuals and families. Outside of her professional work, she channels her creativity as a clay maker, crafting handmade unique pieces.
When she’s not juggling her many roles, you’ll likely find Kareena spreading smiles, crafting something beautiful, or dreaming up new ways to make the world a brighter place. She’s proof that care and creativity go hand in hand!
Community-Driven Events
Our annual Butterflies & Brews Festival is a community fundraiser with live music, food trucks, raffles, and brews. It brings together families, supporters, and local businesses to raise vital funds for our mission.
Proceeds from this and other events directly support the miracles we provide, helping families facing serious medical challenges get the support they need.
Powered by People Like You
We believe everyone can play a part in making a difference. Whether you're donating, volunteering, attending an event, or nominating a family, your involvement fuels everything we do. We're a small but mighty team—and we rely on a growing network of generous, big-hearted supporters.
With your help, we can continue saying “yes” to families in need. One miracle at a time.
Real Families, Real Change
These miracles bring relief, independence, and peace of mind to caregivers—many of whom have exhausted every other option. When you support Maddie’s Miracles, you’re not just donating—you’re directly changing the lives of children who deserve more comfort, mobility, and joy.
