Update: We got a date for his first treatment in Toronto and we will be going soon (December). I was informed by sick kids today November 20 that there will be multiple followup appointments in Toronto , to treat his condition. I will update more once we are in Toronto and when I speak to his doctor. So I am continuing to keep this gofundme opened. Thank you to everyone who has helped us, it is appreciated more than you know!

Update: I received a call from Sick Kids, November 13th. They asked us to come in November 15th. I checked the cost of last minute flights and the cheapest ones were over $3000. This is why I have increased my goal. Thank you to everyone who has helped.

Hi, my name is Dara. I am a young mother of two children. At a routine eye doctor appointment for my son Kalem on November 7th 2023 fluid was detected in the photos taken . The eye doctor was concerned and immediately put in a referral to see a specialist Dr. Bhambhwani at the Port Arthur Clinic close by . Today November 8 we met with the specialist. Kalem has been diagnosed with early stage Coats Disease. Coats disease is a condition with the arteries and veins inside the eye that provide oxygen to the retina are effected . In Coats disease the blood vessels are dilated , abnormally twisted and leaky, this prevents blood flow of blood and causes fluid to leak out , causing a buildup of fatty material in the retina. This can cause detachment of the retina and loss of vision.

Kalem has been referred to see a doctor in Toronto to receive the laser treatment for his condition as it is not available for children here in Thunder Bay.

The cost of flights will be difficult for me as a single mother so I am reaching out in hopes I can get some help to cover the costs to get my son the treatment he needs.