Homegoing for 26-Year-Old Calista Pierce — Remainder Will Support Little Gi’Anaa’s Care

We are all devastated by the loss of Calista Jenea Pierce "Pie", a loving mother, daughter, sister, and friend whose courage and devotion never faded—even during her most difficult days.

In March 2024, Calista was diagnosed with Stage 4 colorectal cancer that had metastasized. She fought bravely, but in her final moments, she told her brother that she was tired. Shortly after, she peacefully left this world and joined her mother in heaven.

Though her earthly battle ended, her love lives on through her daughter.

Calista loved all of her brothers and sisters, but she shared an especially deep and unbreakable bond with her brother, Dominique Davison, who helped raise her and supported her through every stage of life. Their connection was truly special, and losing her has left a tremendous void in his heart.

Calista was a single mother who poured her entire heart into caring for her precious 5-year-old daughter, Gi’Anaa Beverly Raine Henning, who requires full-time medical and physical support.

Gi’Anaa’s Story

Gi’Anaa was born with an extremely rare form of dwarfism called Spondyloepiphyseal Dysplasia Congenita (SEDC). Only 1 in 100,000 babies are born with this condition, and there are fewer than 50 known cases worldwide. She is one of the smallest children in the United States living with SEDC.

Her medical needs are significant:

Chronic lung disease

A chest too small for her lungs to fully grow

A need for a complex, life-changing surgery called VEPTR, which insurance does not cover

Specialists are cautious due to her extremely small size

Gi’Anaa spent 9½ months in the NICU in Iowa City on a ventilator. Now at age 5, she cannot yet walk or talk independently, but she works hard every day through three different therapies. Her spirit is bright, strong, and determined—just like her mother’s.

Who Will Care for Gi’Anaa Now

With Calista’s passing, Gi’Anaa will be lovingly raised by her Aunt Kia Blevins and Uncle, who are opening their home and hearts to provide the stability, love, and medical support she needs.

They are committed to giving her a safe, nurturing life. However, the financial responsibilities ahead are heavy: therapies, medical appointments, equipment, accessible home modifications, and long-term care needs.

How Your Donation Helps

All contributions will go directly toward:

Funeral and memorial costs to lay Calista to rest with dignity

Ensuring Gi’Anaa continues to grow, learn, and thrive the way Calista wanted

Every donation, no matter the amount, makes a meaningful difference.

Thank You for Honoring Calista & Supporting Gi’Anaa

If you are unable to give, sharing this GoFundMe is a powerful gift.

Thank you for helping us keep Calista’s love and legacy alive by supporting her daughter’s future.

We are truly grateful.