Aiyannah's Spinal Fusion Surgery

Our sweet girl Aiyannah was diagnosed with Scoliosis when she was just 11 years old -- putting an end to her passion for competitive dance with Center Stage Dance Studio and softball at Butchgore park. Halting her love for high school sports. Because of her condition, she was restricted to a back brace for 22 hours daily. Unfortunately, the brace didn't keep her condition from worsening. We recently found that things have taken a drastic turn for the worse. In September, we learned that the 34% curve in her spine quickly grew to 54% and, within three weeks, grew to 60%. The curve in her spine is affecting her lungs. She now struggles to perform simple tasks such as walking up our stairs and running. After several doctor's appointments, X-Rays, MRIs, and expert opinions - spinal fusion/spinal reconstructive surgery is critical to her health -- physically, mentally and emotionally.

Being a single Mom of 3 children in 3 different stages in life, my motto is "If I don't work, we won't eat!" I thought I was doing the right thing, planning to work enough to save money to provide for my family, but I was wrong. Her condition worsened the longer I put surgery off out of fear and to provide for my family. I thought we had more time to plan and prepare for surgery; however, things quickly progressed. I suddenly went from working to provide for my family to stepping out on faith to invest in my daughter's health and future. Because my employer didn't offer PTO, FMLA or medical and health benefits, attending doctors' appointments and scheduling surgery was challenging. If you know me, you have had the privilege of witnessing me operate in my gift; with saddeness, I had to walk away. Walking away to care for my daughter's health, leaving me unemployed with three children, is one of our most challenging times. Medical expenses, out-of-pocket deductibles and copays are piling up as her surgery date quickly approaches. Surgery is scheduled for Friday, November 11th; the surgery is 7 hours and will give her a week's stay in our local children's hospital. She will spend a night or 2 in NICU and gradually step down to the regular care unit. Ahead is a 6-8 week recovery, including lots of physical therapy, mental health counseling and home-bound education. While I ask for your prayers and well wishes, I also ask for your financial support as we navigate these uncharted waters. Your help is needed and much appreciated.