Hi everyone! My name is Helen Allen and I'm starting this GoFundMe to help my sister and her family during this tough time.

Katie and Tyler's sweet 21-month-old Talila is currently in the hospital, and their family’s world has been turned upside down. What began as a quick trip to Kansas to celebrate Katie’s grandmother’s life suddenly turned into a whirlwind of worry and unexpected health challenges.

On the evening of August 9th, Talila started feeling unwell and was taken to the emergency room. She tested negative for COVID, strep, and RSV, and was given medicine to start the next day.

The following morning, after her first dose, her condition worsened. Katie and Tyler made the difficult decision to take her back to the ER before beginning their 10-hour trip home to Saint Ansgar, Iowa. When they arrived, they learned her oxygen level had dropped below 90% — dangerously low for a child her age.

Doctors quickly began treatment, providing IV fluids, oxygen support, blood work, and X-rays. They believe she’s in the early stages of viral pneumonia. Since then, she has remained on oxygen, and attempts to lower her oxygen support have caused her breathing to decline. She’s also needed her lungs suctioned to help her breathe more comfortably.

Right now, there’s no set discharge date, and being far from home has added emotional and financial stress to an already overwhelming situation. Katie and Tyler are doing everything they can to stay by her side while rearranging work schedules.

We’re starting this GoFundMe to help ease the burden so Katie and Tyler can focus entirely on Talila’s recovery. Donations will go toward:

• Medical expenses not covered by insurance

• Meals and daily needs during this time

Your prayers, encouragement, and generosity mean the world to us. Whether you’re able to contribute financially or simply share this page, every bit of support helps Katie, Tyler, and Talila feel less alone in this fight.

Thank you for being part of Talila’s journey to healing.