Our beautiful 6-year-old girl, Alyza, has been living with a condition called Chiari malformation that has been truly life-altering. Chiari is a condition where the lower part of the brain (called the cerebellar tonsils) is pushed downward into the spinal canal. Because this part of the brain is crowded and in the wrong place, it blocks normal spinal fluid flow and puts pressure on the brain and spinal cord.

She has battled chronic pain, overwhelming amounts of neurological symptoms, brain surgery, and limitations that no child should ever have to face. She's been through so much but been so brave through it all.

Every day is a struggle for her, and as parents, it's heartbreaking to watch. But finally, we have a real chance at hope after so many barriers. This will be Alyza’s second brain surgery in less than a year. This next (and hopefully final) surgery will be completely life-changing for Alyza. This procedure will give her the chance to be her energetic, sassy self again.

However we will need to travel to New York City for this very special neurosurgeon and procedure. And this life-changing surgery is not covered by insurance at all, and the costs of the procedure, the travel across the country, lodging, and time away from work are far beyond what our family can manage alone. As much as we wish we could shoulder it ourselves, we simply can't make this happen without support.

We are humbly asking for help, whether through donating or sharing, to give Alyza the chance to heal the way she deserves. She is strong, brave, and full of light. She handled her first surgery with so much bravery and strength; we know she will conquer this one as well.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for any support, love, and kindness you can offer.