Beth Crissinger holds a photo of her sons that wass taken while Jeffrey, right, was still a healthy and active 3-year-old.

Tony Crissinger, 6, talks about his school work with his mother while she suctions mucous from Jeffrey's mouth.

Physical therapist Jan Easton runs Jeffrey through stretching exercises to help his atrophied muscles. He remains attached to his the multi-use tube that administers nutrition and medications at all times.

Jeffrey Crissinger shows minimal awareness as he sits in his stroller chair while in the doctor's exam room.

Adam Crissinger cradles Jeffrey to soothe and warm him after being weighed on a cold metal scale.

Despite their separation Beth and Adam Crissinger go together to Jeffrey's doctor check ups. He is rolled on his side as the nurse conducts a vitals exam.

Amidst the clutter of the house she shares with her parents and brother, Beth Crissinger cares for her ailing son Jeffrey. The family has learned to live around the extra belongings in the house.

Jeffrey Crissinger recuperates at Inova Fairfax Hospital following a medical procedure in which his feeding tub was replaced. He suffers from Batten disease, a condition that is killing his brain cells.