Help 13-year-old Grace live her life again

In September 2021, the Evans’ family life changed in an instant. Thirteen-year-old Grace Evans was a typical tween: she went to school, she played sports, she spent time with friends. Overnight, she was unable to walk, talk, or do most functions of daily life.There was no accident, no trauma, no injury. Her parents were devastated. Doctors had few answers.

 

After several hospitalizations and endless testing, doctors diagnosed Grace with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), a condition that affects her movement and senses, including her ability to walk, swallow, speak, and hear. Grace's particular condition is uncommon and not particularly well understood, which adds to the family’s challenges.

 

Grace requires round-the-clock care. She needs help eating, communicating, and moving. Her mother, Laura, describes it as “having toddler-like functioning, but in the body of a 13-year-old.” Grace has shown some encouraging signs in the past few months — she stood unassisted for the first time in months! But the journey has been hard on the entire family, emotionally and financially.

 

The costs for Grace’s care are staggering: insurance deductibles, copays, out-of-pocket expenses, therapy, counseling, medications. On a teacher’s salary — Laura is the best elementary school teacher any kid could hope for! — the costs are especially daunting. Few doctors and therapists have experience with NFD. Finding care often means paying for providers that are out-of-network and traveling outside of Michigan for treatment.

 

In the coming weeks, Grace will be admitted to Cleveland Clinic for three weeks of inpatient care. She’ll receive intense therapy by experts on her condition. The Evans’ are optimistic about the progress that Grace will make, and the chance it offers to help her regain some of her lost abilities.

 

No parent should ever have to choose between medical care for their child and paying their other bills. When Grace first became ill, many people who adore the Evans family came together to raise $12,000 toward her care. Those funds were so appreciated. However, Grace’s ongoing medical needs necessitate further funds. If you’re able, please consider giving again or sharing this fundraiser. All funds will go towards medical expenses and Grace’s direct care.

 

Thank you!

#gigistrong