Young Girl With Rare Genetic Disorder Critically Injured in Oregon School Shooting

Saylor Graham-Poarch, a 7-year-old girl with an extremely rare genetic disorder, is beginning a long recovery after sustaining critical injuries in a shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend, Oregon. The incident, which occurred last Thursday, resulted in four fatalities, including three students and a teacher, before the teenage gunman was killed.

Saylor, who has CASK, a disorder that affects brain development and can cause significant physical and cognitive disabilities, was among the students caught in the rampage. Fewer than 600 people worldwide have been diagnosed with CASK. She frequently uses a wheelchair and has navigated substantial medical challenges throughout her life.

Despite her lifelong health issues, Saylor is described by friends of her family as having an "amazing spirit" and embodying "joy and love and unbridled happiness." She was chosen as the face of a community initiative by Bend Senior High School for the 2024-25 school year, a program that connects students with children facing serious medical conditions.

In a video produced for the initiative in December 2024, Saylor's resilience was highlighted. Text accompanying the video stated, "Living with CASK is full of unknowns, which can be very hard and scary for my whole family, but it doesn't keep me from smiling, laughing and living with joy!" The video also noted her enjoyment of the children's television series "Bluey" and spending time with her family. Her message of determination was clear: "Even with these challenges, I prove every day that I'm a fighter who doesn't give up."

Following the shooting, Saylor was taken to the hospital in critical condition. A GoFundMe campaign established to support her family has raised over $845,000. The fundraiser noted the immense practical and emotional burden on the family, who are juggling hospital visits, caring for Saylor's sibling, and managing household expenses while unable to work.

Community members and organizations supporting those with CASK have rallied around Saylor and her family. Central Oregon Sparrow Clubs, the nonprofit behind the initiative Saylor participated in, expressed their support, calling her a "beam of light." Project CASK, a research advocacy group, organized a virtual prayer gathering and encouraged contributions to the family's fundraisers, sending messages of love and support to Saylor and her family, as well as others affected by the tragedy in Bend.