The following is a message from the Peru Police Department: PERU, IN- Earlier this week, Peru Police Department Sgt. Detective Colten Pitner’s daughter Riley was diagnosed with a very rare genetic disease called Batten disease. There is currently no cure for Batten disease, and people with it generally do not live past their late teens or early twenties.
While the Pitner’s were trying to figure out what was going on with Riley’s eyesight, she had two seizures in May. The doctors at IU conducted various tests, including genetic testing. It was a result of that genetic testing that led to the diagnosis of Batten disease.
The Pitner family are now going to do everything that they possibly can to slow the progression of this disease. They are working on getting Riley in to one of the few doctors in the country that specialize in this disease. There are a few promising treatments and studies being done; however, funding seems to be the biggest hurdle for the research at this point.
The Pitner’s ask that if you are a praying person that you keep them in your prayers, and if not, they ask that you send the best thoughts and vibes possible towards their family. They are also getting their son Lincoln tested too, so please send good vibes and prayers that he does not have it as well.
At this time, an account has been set up for the Pitner family to assist them with their future travel, lodging and medical expenses. If you would like to make a donation, you may drop off a donation at the Peru Police Department between the hours of 8:00am-4:00pm, Monday-Friday.
Moving forward, please keep a close eye on our social media as the Miami County FOP and Peru Police Department will be working closely together to conduct community involved fundraising efforts to benefit the Pitner family moving forward. We thank you in advance for any support you show towards the Pitner family.