Ja’Vaun's Urgent Surgery: Your Help Matters

Hello, my name is Alexis Jefferson. I am the mother of Ja’Vaun Johnson. As many of you all know, my son Ja’Vaun, the child of Ferriday, LA, who always asks anyone for a dollar, had a traumatic brain injury since he was 3 years old. He has three subdural hematomas, and by age ten, he had a major setback, leaving him verbally and physically unable to walk, talk, and eat, requiring a G-tube, etc. He has been beating every obstacle thrown at him, and he is so strong and brave. He has been followed by Ochsner in Baton Rouge, LA, and New Orleans, seeing neurosurgeons, neurology, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and mental health services.

Now, at the age of 13, his doctors have found that his hips and legs are now lagging in growing with his body, and he urgently needs surgery on his hips and legs to even his body out, or he will be left paralyzed and lose his ability to ever walk again. As his mother, I knew a major surgery was coming one day, but I didn’t know we had until June 12, 2025, to prepare for this surgery. He is a fall risk and seizure precaution disabled child, and doctors are aiming to put him into a medically induced coma to prevent any damage from him having a seizure, which may be caused while he is undergoing this extensive surgery.

I had to quit my job because I could not keep a home health agent in the home to help me take care of his needs, leaving me to do it myself. I am financially in need of help to prepare for this trip to Ochsner in New Orleans on June 12, 2025, not knowing when we will be discharged due to his other health issues. I have no extra money put aside or any funds to even attempt to stay with him so far away from home. He will leave his family behind again, and we will be admitted into the hospital. I hate to ask, but I am in dire need of financial help to help me with traveling, food, and any other thing Ja’Vaun may need while we are admitted in New Orleans. Anything, and I do mean anything, will help. I’m not asking for much, but if you can find it in your hearts to help me, then please do. God will guide the surgeon's hands, and God will protect Ja’Vaun’s health and my traveling safety. Thank you all, and God bless you all.

UPDATE:: surgery had a few complications from seizures but they are controlled. Recovery is still around 12 months. He is awake and we’re about to be discharged as no hospital room beds are available. He will be coming home on bed bound 12 months ahead!!!

I still am unable to return to work. Please help us if you are able.