Main fundraiser photo

My sister Emily needs urgent surgery

Donation protected

Hi, my name is Javier, and I’m 26. I never thought I’d be writing something like this… but my little sister Emily needs help — now more than ever.

She’s only 7 years old. She used to be the happiest kid I knew. Always running around, dancing in the living room, riding her bike. Then, something changed.

A few months ago, she just… stopped being able to move like before. It started with a limp. Then she started falling. And now… she can’t walk at all.

We’ve been to every doctor we could find. The diagnosis is complicated. But they told us there’s still a chance — a very small window — to help her recover movement.
It involves an advanced treatment overseas, therapy, and long-term rehab. But it’s expensive — more than our family can afford. The total cost is over $600,000. That includes travel, medical expenses, equipment, and housing during her treatment.

I wish I could do more. I’ve never felt so powerless.
But I can do this: ask for help.

We’re asking you — anyone reading this — to consider donating. Even $5 makes a difference. And if you can’t donate, please, share this with someone who might.

Every share, every dollar, every message of support… gives my sister a bit more strength. And it gives me hope too.

Thank you for reading. For caring.
And for giving my sister a chance to stand again.

— Javier

We understand $600,000 is a lot of money — here’s exactly why we’re asking for that amount. Every dollar has a purpose, and this is how it will be used to give Emily a real chance at walking again:
• Specialized medical treatment
Emily needs to be treated at a world-class neurological rehabilitation center. This includes several months of intensive therapy, monitoring, and hospital stays.
Estimated cost: $220,000
• Surgical procedures
One or more complex surgeries are required to restore any chance of movement. This includes post-op care and follow-up visits.
Estimated cost: $130,000
• Medication and long-term therapy
Emily will need advanced medication, daily physiotherapy, and neuromuscular sessions for over a year.
Estimated cost: $55,000
• Medical equipment
A custom wheelchair, temporary braces, and even robotic-assisted movement tools like a partial exoskeleton will be necessary.
Estimated cost: $35,000
• Travel and international relocation
Flights to specialized centers (possibly in the U.S. or Europe), medical transport, and accessibility costs.
Estimated cost: $25,000
• Accommodation near the hospital
Her family will need to stay nearby for months during treatment and recovery.
Estimated cost: $45,000
• Home adaptations and care
A hospital-grade bed, ramps, accessible bathroom installations, and at-home nursing for recovery.
Estimated cost: $30,000
• Administrative and legal costs
Visas, international medical paperwork, document translations, and partial insurance coverage.
Estimated cost: $12,000
• Emergency buffer
Medical complications can arise. This buffer will cover unexpected interventions or new needs.
Estimated reserve: $48,000
Donate

Donations (4)

  • Anonymous
    • $10
    • 24 d
  • Javier Tena
    • $5
    • 24 d
  • Anonymous
    • $5
    • 24 d
  • Anonymous
    • $6
    • 25 d
Become an early supporter

Your donation matters

Donate

Organizer

Javier T
Organizer
Beverly Hills, CA

Your easy, powerful, and trusted home for help

  • Easy

    Donate quickly and easily

  • Powerful

    Send help right to the people and causes you care about

  • Trusted

    Your donation is protected by the GoFundMe Giving Guarantee