Our sweet granddaughter Magnolia has been in the hospital for almost two weeks battling serious complications from measles. What started as a virus has turned into a frightening fight that has tested her little body in so many ways.

Magnolia has been struggling to eat and drink on her own, requiring continuous IV fluids to keep her hydrated. She is undergoing constant neurological checks for signs of encephalitis (swelling of the brain) and is also closely monitored by respiratory specialists for pneumonia — two of the most dangerous complications of measles.

She continues to spike high fevers, and recently suffered a seizure when her temperature reached 104.9. Thankfully, after an EEG and CT scan, there was no sign of brain damage. Still, her medical team is considering placing an NG tube (feeding tube) because she has lost weight during her stay and is unable to maintain the nutrition her body needs. Magnolia has also experienced multiple days of projectile vomiting, requiring anti-nausea medication just so she can begin to keep fluids down.

Through it all, she has remained such a fighter — but this has been incredibly hard on her parents. My daughter Aubrie has been by Magnolia’s side in the hospital every day, while her husband Ronnie balances working and caring for their 20-month-old, Willow. With Aubrie on unpaid FMLA, their family is struggling to keep up with household bills, hospital expenses not covered by insurance, meals, gas to and from the hospital, and basic needs for Willow.

We are reaching out to ask for help. Any donation, big or small, will go directly toward supporting Magnolia’s recovery and helping Aubrie and Ronnie keep their family afloat during this difficult time.

If you can’t give financially, sharing this page or sending prayers and encouragement means the world to us. Magnolia is a strong little girl, but she and her family need a village right now.

Thank you for reading, for caring, and for being part of Magnolia’s fight.