Help Little Otto Access His Backyard!
Meet Otto — a bright, sweet, and brave 2-year-old boy living in the Denver metro area. Otto was born with an extremely rare genetic condition called STXBP1-related disorder, caused by variations in the STXBP1 gene. This condition affects his motor skills, development, and coordination.
While most two-year-olds are busy running, climbing, and exploring the world around them, Otto faces a very different reality. He uses a gate trainer part of the time, and even when he’s not in it, simple movements that many of us take for granted can be exhausting or impossible for him.
But here’s the heartbreaking part: right now, Otto can’t even get into his own backyard.
His family’s house has no safe, accessible way for him to get from the back door to the yard. They need a custom-built deck with ramps and accessible landings so Otto can maneuver safely, explore, and play like every child deserves.
⸻Why We’re Asking for Help
We’re April and Rob Schmidt, owners of The Deck Company, a family-owned business proudly serving the Denver metro for over 33 years. When we heard Otto’s story, we knew we couldn’t just stand by.
We are committed to building Otto and his family the deck they need — but this is a big project, and the family is already facing medical costs, therapies, and daily challenges.
We’re asking our friends, neighbors, and community:
Will you help give Otto the gift of access and freedom?
⸻What Your Gift Will Do
Every dollar raised will go directly toward:
• Building a spacious, accessible deck and ramp system off the family’s back door
• Creating safe pathways so Otto can get down to yard level
• Giving Otto the freedom to play, explore, and enjoy nature with his family
No child should be cut off from their own backyard — especially not a child like Otto, who faces so many barriers already.
⸻Please Join Us
If you’ve ever watched a child’s face light up as they play outside… if you believe in helping neighbors through hard times… if you can give even a small amount, you will help change Otto’s life.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts,
April & Rob Schmidt
The Deck Company
www.thedeckcompanyinc.com
