Hi, my name is Sandra and I am a single mother to my beautiful one year old daughter, Kaira.

In August 2025, at just 11 months old, Kaira was diagnosed with severe hydrocephalus (water on the brain). One month later, she underwent Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV) brain surgery. Hearing that my daughter might face lifelong challenges and may or may not walk shattered my world.

Kaira was born in September 2024, and like any first time mom, I was overjoyed and excited for our future. She was healthy, laughing, rolling, grabbing toys, and sitting with support. But as months passed, I noticed her head circumference continued to grow rapidly. After pushing for further assessment, she was diagnosed with hydrocephalus. Her head circumference had reached 59 cm.

Watching your child go through brain surgery is something no parent can prepare for. Sitting in a hospital waiting room not knowing your child’s outcome is the most terrifying feeling imaginable.

Since her surgery, Kaira has been facing severe developmental delays. She struggles with head control, gross motor skills, and weight bearing. She cannot sit up or get up on her own. However, with the recent help from a child development consultant, she recently began lifting her head with control. A small but powerful milestone that gives me hope.

I have been on maternity leave since September 2024, and my benefits have now ended. Kaira’s father had to leave the country due to immigration issues shortly after her surgery, and I have been caring for her full-time on my own. I am currently receiving limited caregiver benefits, which will end soon.

Kaira urgently needs ongoing physiotherapy and occupational therapy to improve her mobility and development. Unfortunately, I am financially drained and unable to afford the level of therapy she needs. Specialized daycare is not an option due to her medical condition, and I am not yet in a position mentally or emotionally to return to work while she requires full time care.

I am asking, from the bottom of my heart, for any support you can offer. Every donation no matter the amount will go directly towards Kaira’s medical therapies, treatment, and essential living expenses during this incredibly difficult time.

Most of all, I am fighting to give my daughter the best chance at walking, growing, and living a full life.

If you cannot donate, please consider sharing our story and keeping us in your prayers.

Thank you for taking the time to read about Kaira’s journey.

With gratitude,

Sandra