Amelia was a very active, healthy, energetic, and sweet young teen until an unexpected event happened in October. Four months ago, she woke up to get ready for school and discovered she was paralyzed. After a trip to the ER, it was still uncertain why she had lost feeling in her legs, but thankfully, the feeling returned that day. Soon after, she began falling at school and experiencing leg numbness that would last for hours. We went through countless blood and body tests and visited numerous doctors both locally and across the state, but we still had no definitive answers.
Right after Christmas, Amelia was finally diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder, a rare and complex condition that has dramatically changed her life. She has endured functional seizures, periods of paralysis, temporary muteness, and even episodes of blindness. She has needed constant attention and has relied on medical equipment like wheelchairs and walkers to get through her days. Amelia has also missed countless days of school because of the functional seizures, but despite these challenges, she managed to pass all of her midterms. Watching her struggle with these symptoms has been heartbreaking for our family, and we are determined to do everything we can to help her regain her health and happiness.
Unfortunately, there are no treatment facilities in North Carolina or the surrounding states that can provide the specialized care Amelia needs. After extensive research, we found a facility in Los Angeles, CA, that specializes in pediatric patients with her condition. This center offers hope for Amelia’s recovery, but it comes with significant challenges. The facility does not accept insurance, and we must also cover the costs of travel, living expenses for Amelia and one parent during her treatment, and support for the rest of our family at home.
The urgency is real—the sooner Amelia can begin treatment, the sooner she has a chance to reclaim her life. We are reaching out to our community and beyond for help. Any amount you can give will go directly toward Amelia’s treatment and the expenses that come with this journey. Your support means the world to us and brings us one step closer to seeing Amelia healthy and happy again. Thank you for standing with us in this fight for her future.
Right after Christmas, Amelia was finally diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder, a rare and complex condition that has dramatically changed her life. She has endured functional seizures, periods of paralysis, temporary muteness, and even episodes of blindness. She has needed constant attention and has relied on medical equipment like wheelchairs and walkers to get through her days. Amelia has also missed countless days of school because of the functional seizures, but despite these challenges, she managed to pass all of her midterms. Watching her struggle with these symptoms has been heartbreaking for our family, and we are determined to do everything we can to help her regain her health and happiness.
Unfortunately, there are no treatment facilities in North Carolina or the surrounding states that can provide the specialized care Amelia needs. After extensive research, we found a facility in Los Angeles, CA, that specializes in pediatric patients with her condition. This center offers hope for Amelia’s recovery, but it comes with significant challenges. The facility does not accept insurance, and we must also cover the costs of travel, living expenses for Amelia and one parent during her treatment, and support for the rest of our family at home.
The urgency is real—the sooner Amelia can begin treatment, the sooner she has a chance to reclaim her life. We are reaching out to our community and beyond for help. Any amount you can give will go directly toward Amelia’s treatment and the expenses that come with this journey. Your support means the world to us and brings us one step closer to seeing Amelia healthy and happy again. Thank you for standing with us in this fight for her future.