HI, I am a friend of the family. I'd like to introduce you to some of my favorite people: Tera La-el, Brian Hansen and their toddler Geno. I have spent time with this remarkable family since Geno's birth. Both mom Tera and dad Brian are totally in love and devoted to their playful, smiling son. When on September 7th of this year Geno spiked a fever and could not put weight on his left leg without crying in pain, Mom Tera immediately called their pediatrician and got her son to the local hospital, PeaceHealth RiverBend. When doctors there were unsure of the test results, both Brian and Tera immediately consented to have their son airlifted to Randall Children's Hospital in Portland, OR, 120 miles north. There it was determined Geno had a deep infection in his growing femur, which had caused swelling in his knee. The surgeon team drained the fluid and washed the infection out of his femur.

Geno was hospitalized for 5 days w his parents by his side to comfort and support him All of this was stressful and has put them behind in paying their bills. Brian is the sole income earner and missed a whole week of work. Insurance covers most of the medical expenses -- though not all -- and gas, food and lodging were unexpected expenditures for this family and remain outstanding. Events like this situation with little 1 1/2-year-old Geno can be rough, especially when you his parents are trying to work hard to get back on their feet.

Brian works 50 hours a week to keep them going, but they live without any savings to help with unexpected costs such as this medical emergency. I am hoping we can create a long-term and short-term financial buffer with this fund. Money will go into a separate savings account to be used immediately to pay current bills. Donations received beyond the immediate need will be saved for future situations should they occur.

Thank you for reading and considering this request. Any donation amount is also greatly appreciated.