The sudden death of their son, Ricky, at age four, from Reye s Syndrome, left them in a state of virtual desolation.

Only those who have lost a child can fully understand.

Ricky had the chicken pox, and shortly thereafter, went into an unexplained coma.

When they reached the hospital, they were immediately advised that he was suffering Reye s Syndrome.

They were totally incredulous.

He remained in the coma for several days and never recovered.

After a period of time, Ricky s Godparents came to them and suggested the idea of a Fund or Foundation in his memory.

The thought of this was really our first positive reaction generated since his death.

They decided to start the Ricky King Foundation, Inc., which at the beginning generated money for the Children s Hospital Research Foundation in Cincinnati.

This research was basically restricted to searching for the cause of Reye s Syndrome.

Later, after the discovery of the aspirin-Reye s connection, they moved on to funding research on other pediatric diseases, particularly pediatric liver disorders.

After moving to Naples, Florida, they initiated the Fund in Southwest Florida where they deal directly with the families of children who need help.

They deeply thank all of our Board members and volunteers for their devoted assistance.

And although we can never replace Ricky, this has developed into a positive blessing born out of tragedy.

Rich King, Founder THE RICKY KING FUND AND/OR THE RICKY KING FOUNDATION MISSION STATEMENT -

The mission of the Ricky King Fund is to provide a conduit of community support from individuals, corporations and organizations for the unmet medical needs of children and youth in Collier, Lee and Charlotte Counties.

The Fund provides financial support and information resources for medical needs, and strives to maintain the dignity of every individual.