Hello, I’m Meagan McDonnell. I was born with unilateral coronal craniosynostosis and plagiocephaly—a rare condition that fused one side of my skull too soon, distorting my forehead, orbital bones, and upper jaw. On April 7, 1989, Dr. Kenneth Salyer performed a groundbreaking surgery that not only corrected my skull but also gave me confidence and a brighter future.

Over the years, the complexity of my condition—especially around my eye socket, forehead, and maxilla has required multiple interventions. Most recently, postoperative complications have left me with worsened facial asymmetry, vision disturbances, fluid buildup in my forehead, and persistent nasal issues.

Why I’m Raising Funds

I have been accepted as a patient at the world‑renowned Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, where a team of craniofacial specialists is prepared to address these intertwined challenges with the same patient‑centered excellence that Dr. Salyer demonstrated decades ago. I’m scheduled (God willing) for the first phase of my treatment on May 15, 2025.

Your support will help cover:

    •    Travel & Lodging: Multiple trips from Texas to Rochester, MN

    •    Out‑of‑Pocket Medical Expenses: Surgeries, specialist consultations, imaging, and supplies not fully covered by insurance

    •    Postoperative Care & Rehabilitation: Physical therapy, follow‑up visits, medications, and accommodations during recovery

A Special Shout‑Out

A huge thank‑you to Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN for welcoming me as a patient and coordinating every detail—from travel logistics to world‑class surgical planning—for my specialized craniofacial care. Their expertise and compassion give me hope and confidence as I prepare for this next chapter.

How You Can Help

    1.    Donate: Every dollar brings me closer to the care I need.

    2.    Share: Please share this campaign with your network on social media, email, or word of mouth.

    3.    Encourage: Your messages of support keep my spirits high through challenging days.

With Gratitude

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for any support you can offer—financially, by sharing, or simply by sending positive thoughts. Together, we can honor Dr. Salyer’s legacy and help me achieve the healing and symmetry I’ve longed for.

With heartfelt thanks,

Meagan McDonnell