David's Brave Fight: Supporting a Difficult Diagnosis
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$20,963 raised of
120 donations
We are reaching out with heavy hearts and hopeful spirits. David is facing one of the toughest battles a child can endure. He has been diagnosed with Rasmussen’s Encephalitis, a rare and progressive neurological disease that causes severe seizures, loss of motor function, and long-term cognitive challenges.
After months of tests, hospital stays, and watching his condition worsen, his medical team has recommended the most difficult, but most effective, treatment: major brain surgery that will stop the seizures and give him a chance at a future without further neurological decline.
What He’s Going Through:
Rasmussen’s Encephalitis affects only a tiny number of children each year. It causes one side of the brain to become inflamed, leading to:
- Persistent seizures that are uncontrollable by medication
- Weakness on one side of the body
- Progressive loss of motor skills
- Long-term neurological damage if left untreated
Despite medications, therapies, and emergency care, his seizures have continued, and time is critical.
The Surgery:
The only effective treatment is a hemispherectomy, a specialized brain surgery that aims to stop the progression of the disease by disconnecting the affected right side of the brain from the healthy left side and give him a chance to rebuild his life. It is an intense and costly surgery even with insurance.
Recovery:
The surgery is expected to immediately stop the seizures, but recovery will be very long and slow. The weakness in the left side of his body will be greatly magnified and his brain will have to re-learn how to use his arm and leg, but they will never be fully functional again. David’s recovery will require:
- Several weeks of hospitalization post-surgery
- 2-3 months of intensive inpatient rehabilitation
- Ongoing physical, occupational, and speech therapy
- Long-term follow-up assessments and medications
- Specialized eye exams and treatments
- Supportive aids to help him regain mobility and independence
Why We’re Asking for Help:
The Simpson family is doing everything possible emotionally, physically, and financially, but the costs are overwhelming. Funds raised will go toward:
- Medical bills and surgical expenses
- Rehabilitation and therapies
- Travel and lodging for hospital stays
- Adaptive equipment for home and school
How You Can Help:
If you are able, any donation, big or small, makes a real difference. Even if you cannot donate, sharing this page means the world to us. Your support brings comfort, strength, and hope to our entire family during this challenging time.
Thank You!
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for reading, sharing, donating, and especially praying. David has been very brave through all of this and with the love around him, and God’s blessing, we believe he can get through this. Your kindness helps give him the chance at the life he deserves.
#DavidBrave #hopeinonehemisphere
Organizer and beneficiary
Katherine Simpson
Beneficiary