Aliya's Last Hope for a Life Without Limits

Hi, our names are Emma and Mayzie, and we are setting up this GoFundMe for our best friend, Aliya. This is not something she would ever ask for herself—she is one of the most selfless, giving people we know—but the reality is that she needs help.

Aliya is 18 years old, bright, talented, and has an incredible future ahead of her. She’s always been the kind of person who lifts up those around her—whether through her kindness, intelligence, or determination to one day become a doctor and help others.

But right now, Aliya is facing the biggest challenge of her life, and without this surgery, the future she has worked so hard for may no longer be possible. She started her first year of college last Fall and had to take a leave of absence for most of this year due to her complicated health issues.

Aliya has been battling Tourette’s Syndrome, OCD, and chronic pain, etc. for years. These conditions have taken so much from her—her ability to do the things she loves, her independence, and the simple, everyday freedoms that many of us take for granted. Despite trying every available treatment, nothing has provided lasting relief. Now, after exhausting all other options, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) brain surgery, is her last hope.

This is not an easy decision, and it’s not without a lot of risks. Aliya has already faced life-threatening complications in the past. During a previous medical procedure in January, she suffered a malignant hyperthermia (MH) crisis, a rare but severe reaction to anesthesia. This nearly took her life and landed her in the ICU and now, it makes every future surgery—including DBS—far more dangerous. The team at Mayo Clinic has carefully planned for this risk, but it adds another layer of complexity to an already intense procedure.

Why This Surgery Is So Important

DBS is not a cure, but it could be the only chance Aliya has to regain some control over her body and her life. Without it, her conditions will continue to progress, further limiting her ability to function. This surgery represents the last available treatment option—a chance for her to reclaim her future and finally have a life not defined by constant pain and uncontrollable tics.

But here’s the hard truth: the financial burden is overwhelming.

What Your Support Will Help With

Even with insurance, the costs associated with this surgery are massive. Funds raised will go toward:

Medical Expenses: Surgery, hospital stays, and follow-up care.

Travel Costs: Multiple trips to Mayo Clinic, including transportation, lodging, and food for Aliya and her Mom, Nancy.

Post-Surgical Recovery: Rehabilitation, medications, and any unforeseen complications.

This is more than just a surgery—it’s the difference between a future full of possibilities and a future where Aliya is trapped in a body that won’t let her live.

How You Can Help

Aliya is not someone who likes asking for help. She is a giver—always thinking of others before herself. But now, she has no choice but to reach out to her community for support.

If you are able to donate, no amount is too small. Even $1 makes a difference. Every dollar brings her closer to getting this life-changing procedure. If you can’t contribute financially, please share this page with your friends, family, and networks. Spreading the word is just as valuable.

And most importantly, prayers and words of encouragement are deeply appreciated. Aliya’s faith is an essential part of her journey, and knowing she has the love and support of others means the world to her.

A Personal Message to You

This surgery isn’t about making life easier—it’s about making life possible. Aliya is fighting for a future where she can pursue her dreams, continue her education, and eventually help others as a doctor. She refuses to let her conditions define her, and with your support, she won’t have to.

If you’d like to send her a private message of encouragement, please reach out to her through here. Your words will mean more than you know.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being part of Aliya’s journey. Your kindness, generosity, and prayers are giving her hope for a future without boundaries.

We will keep this page updated with Aliya’s progress—please check back for updates as she moves forward with this life-changing procedure.

With gratitude,

Emma and Mayzie