Family Focus update: Community continues to support boy with brittle bone disease

CHARLOTTE — One of the tiniest inspirations in 2014 was Conner Goldhammer.

Conner is 4 years old and suffers from brittle bone disease. Since birth, he has broken more than 100 bones. Conner's community rallied around him this year to help him get through life a little easier and a whole lot safer.

Boy with brittle bone disease to receive new wheelchair

At a fundraiser in August, people donated thousands of dollars to buy a new safety chair for Conner. It keeps him stable at the table while eating or playing games, and when he's at the bathroom sink.

IMAGES: Conner receives his new safety chair

"We are so thankful for that chair and happy that we can put Conner in the chair and walk away from him knowing that he's going to be safe and stay safe," Denise said.

While anchor Natalie Pasquarella was visiting Conner and his family a couple of weeks ago, Conner made one quick move to sit next to his dad and cracked a rib.

His parents say it happens in a split second.

"I just heard it... had my hand here, and I just kind of leaned over...and I heard a little pop and then he looked at me and made a face," said his mom Denise Goldhammer.

Conner's dad, Kip, said when that happens they medicate Conner and wrap up the area where the break occurred. Conner said that makes him feel better.

The money raised in August also helped cover more hours with Conner's home health aide.

"I'm just definitely glad that I can be here more and help out and do whatever I can to make sure Conner's safe," said home health aide Melinda Horst.

Conner's dad says the extra hours help so much. Conner has four siblings, and needs constant supervision to make sure there are no accidents.

"Even when he's playing with his brothers and sisters, he has to have somebody with him to watch him and make sure his twin sister doesn't fall on him...which has happened, she's sat on him, broke his leg," said dad Kip Goldhammer.

Conner loves his chair and is now focused on Christmas. He told Natalie Pasquarella he wants a Power Ranger, the red one is his favorite.

His family continues to work towards a cure for Brittle Bone Disease. Conner meets with specialists every summer to look at any new treatments available.

WSOC