Hi! My name is Kimberly and I am Kayci Suskind’s big sister. For those of you who don’t already know, Kayci had a potentially life-altering experience just a week and a half ago.

While finally living her dream and participating in the Disney College Program, she awoke early in the morning on January 19 very ill. What everyone thought was a stomach bug turned out to be a very serious condition. Kayci had a hemorrhage from an undiagnosed AVM in her brain. By Wednesday evening, her roommates called an ambulance for her after she wasn’t making sense. Thank goodness they did, because she was very shortly thereafter helicoptered to a major Orlando hospital.

Soon after she arrived (and my mom and I frantically and anxiously drove up to Orlando), she was given an incredible, life saving, 7.5 hour intense brain surgery. We were incredibly lucky to have a fantastic surgeon who worked feverishly to cure Kayci of this potentially horrible fate. With her life in his hands, the surgery was successful.

Since her surgery, although at times a roller coaster, Kayci has consistently progressed towards a full recovery. Her strength over the past week has been incredibly inspiring. Through all the challenges: shaved head, weakened legs and left arm (she’s left handed), major incision, scary diagnosis, etc., Kayci has handled everything with grace, positivity and a maturity beyond her 19 years.

Our hope now is to provide Kayci with the best in rehabilitation to give her back her previously vibrant, active and energetic lifestyle! Though Kayci has good insurance, unfortunately her bills are still quite overwhelming. We are asking friends and family for contributions to assist with her medical bills, rehab, medical equipment, or even her favorite Starbucks order! Truly any amount will help offset this major financial deficit.

Thank you ALL for your constant love, support and prayers! My family, and especially Kayci, felt truly lifted up and surrounded by love at the scariest moment of our lives and we can’t even express how thankful we are for each and every one of you. ❤️