My sister, Latifah, and her husband, Lydell, have faced challenges no parent should ever have to experience. What began as an unexpected medical emergency has become a life-changing journey for their entire family. We are asking our community to continue surrounding them with love, prayers, and support.
 
Born with Tetralogy of Fallot, a congenital heart defect, my niece, Lolana (“Lola”), had already endured more than most people will face in a lifetime by just 8 months old.

 In late May 2026, what initially appeared to be a respiratory illness quickly became a life-threatening cardiac emergency. Lola was airlifted to Rochester, New York, and later transferred to a specialized pediatric heart center in New York City, where doctors determined she needed a heart transplant. In July, Lola underwent surgery to receive a Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) to support her heart while awaiting a donor.

On September 26, 2026, our prayers were answered. Lola received her new-to-her heart! ❤️Just six days later, she celebrated her first birthday.

While these milestones have brought tremendous joy and hope, Lola’s journey is far from over. She continues to face serious medical complications and challenges following her transplant, requiring ongoing specialized care and close monitoring. Her recovery will take time, and the road ahead remains uncertain.

 Through it all, Lola continues to amaze us with her strength, bright spirit, infectious smile, and the famous side eye that her nurses and care team have come to know so well.

 For Latifah and Lydell, this journey continues to bring emotional and financial challenges as they balance being by Lola’s side in New York City while caring for her siblings, Lyelah and Lorenzo, back home in Buffalo.

Your continued support matters. Donations help offset travel, lodging, meals, transportation, and ongoing medical and family-related expenses. Prayers, sharing Lola’s story, words of encouragement, and other acts of kindness are equally welcomed and deeply appreciated.

We don’t know exactly what the road ahead will look like, but we do know this, Lola is deeply loved, fiercely supported, and surrounded by a village that continues to show up for her and her family.

To everyone who has supported Lola from the beginning, and to those joining her journey now, thank you. Your generosity, prayers, and love continue to carry our family through each new chapter.

With love and gratitude,
Lola’s Titi Sherri
On behalf of Our Family