The Carpenter Family

We are a family of four, traveling the world with 2 rare disease children, overcoming odds, and making our dreams come true!

Our two children, Penny and Simon were both born with an extremely rare liver condition called Glycogen Storage Disease 1a. It requires constant monitoring and frequent medical intervention to keep them healthy and avoid liver transplant. Despite these challenges, our goal is to show our kids that they can still travel, learn about the world and accomplish great things.

Over two years ago we took a leap, sold our home in Utah, packed copious amounts of medical supplies and started on our journey abroad by moving to Panama. We have since been traveling the world. 

Our journey hasn’t been without challenges but we’ve learned that challenges often come along with the victories. We are so grateful that we’ve been able to introduce our kids to so many beautiful people and places.

Jaime

In my pre Carping the Diems days I worked in the world of Sports Medicine as an Athletic Trainer. I had the amazing opportunity to help and take care of injuries for high school, NCAA Division I and Olympic Athletes.

My professional path changed after our daughter Penny was diagnosed with Glycogen Storage Disease 1a. Our world was turned upside down in an instant however, our dream of traveling the world didn’t die with that first, or even second diagnosis of GSD1a.

Adapting to our new normal has shown me what is important in life and what blessings can come from unexpected changes.

Lover of:

  • Being Outside
  • Travel
  • Photography
  • A Good Deal
  • Christmas
  • Succulents
  • Dr. Pepper

Danny

When Danny was little he once told his dad, “Remember, I am unique. I can do things my own way.” Thirty something years later and this still pretty much sums Danny up. He is funny, hopes to be fluent in Spanish one day, own homes all over the world & live a “distributed life.” He also likes to eat salad without dressing..

Lover of:

  • Travel
  • Homesteading
  • Real Estate
  • The Beach
  • A Good Show
  • The San Diego Padres

Penny

Penny is the sweetest little soul around. She is a great friend, helper and inspiration to many! You can find her dancing around the house decked out in her latest accessories.

Lover of:

  • Princesses
  • Watching movies
  • Her video camera
  • Reading a good book
  • Make up and nail painting
  • Singing & Dancing
  • Swimming
  • Travel
  • All things Pink
  • Being Fancy
  • Pretzels

Simon

Simon was born 2 months early with independence and perseverance in his bones and it shows daily. He loves tinkering, working on his baseball swing and is almost too smart for his own good ; )

Lover of:

  • Star Wars
  • Baseball
  • Lego
  • Playing outside
  • Sticks
  • Animals
  • Pringles