Help Gabby Heal: Second Surgery Ahead

Hi everyone,

We’re reaching out to share a bit about our brave and beautiful daughter, Gabriela — or as we all lovingly call her, Gabby. She’s 11 years old and one of the toughest kids we know. Over the past few years, Gabby has been through more than any child should have to face, and this June, she’ll be undergoing her second brain and spinal surgery.

Gabby was diagnosed with Chiari Malformation Type 1, as well as a rare genetic condition called TRPS1 (Tricho-rhino-phalangeal syndrome type 1), which affects the shape and development of her bones — including her skull. Because of the Chiari, she developed a syrinx (a fluid-filled cyst in her spinal cord), which has caused scoliosis, muscle weakness, balance issues, chronic headaches, and increasing irritability.

Her first surgery, in January 2024, was intended to relieve pressure on her spinal cord and allow the fluid to drain, but unfortunately, her symptoms have worsened since then.

On June 11th, we’ll be traveling to Manhattan to meet with her neurosurgeon for a second operation. This time, they’ll be placing a stent in her spinal cord to help properly drain the fluid, and also removing scar tissue from her previous surgery. Our greatest hope is that this will ease Gabby’s symptoms and prevent more serious spinal interventions in the future.

It was an incredibly difficult decision to move forward with another surgery, especially after how hard the first one was. But we are doing everything we can in the name of Gabby’s health, comfort, and future.

Through it all, Gabby has been amazingly strong, kind, and resilient. She inspires us every day, and we are beyond grateful to have a supportive community that helps us stay focused on what matters most: her healing.

Any support you can offer will go directly toward travel expenses, time off work, and Gabby’s recovery. Whether that’s a donation, a message of encouragement, or simply sharing her story — it means the world to us.

Thank you for walking this journey with us.

With love and gratitude,

The Montano’s