Emmaline is a bright, sweet 10-year-old who has shown incredible strength from the very beginning. Born at just 24 weeks and weighing only 1.45 lbs, she was a miracle baby after a long journey with fertility treatments. Her first five months were spent in the children’s hospital, fighting through surgeries and challenges just to survive. Against all odds, Emmaline came home and amazed everyone by weaning off oxygen in just three months, instead of the four years doctors predicted. We hoped her struggles were behind her, but life had other plans.

At her 5th grade checkup, we learned that Emmaline has severe scoliosis—a 55-degree curve at the top of her spine, a 45-degree curve at the bottom, and a rare 24-degree twist. Her surgery is scheduled for January 26th in Little Rock, where her spine will be carefully reconstructed with steel rods and brackets. This is a daunting journey for any child, and Emmaline is understandably anxious, but she continues to face each day with hope and happiness.

Emmaline is a homeschool student who excels in her studies, loves Hello Kitty and art, and adores her family and her cats. As her parents, we will need to stay with her in Little Rock for at least a week, missing work and covering hotel and medication costs. We are reaching out for help—something we did once before when she was born, and never thought we’d need to do again. If you are able to support us, even a small amount will help us be there for Emmaline as she recovers. Thank you for considering helping our sweet, smart girl through this next challenge.