<div>Thunder’s Story

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<div>I am raising my granddaughter, <strong>Thunder</strong>, a brave young girl who has already endured more heartbreak than anyone should have to face. After tragically losing her mother in a hit-and-run accident, Thunder is now fighting serious medical battles of her own.

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<div>Thunder lives with Autism, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), and POTS. She has recently been diagnosed with Chiari Malformation Type I, a condition where brain tissue extends into the spinal canal. In Thunder’s case, this condition is also causing a blockage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in her brain.

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<div>This CSF blockage prevents normal fluid flow, leading to increased pressure, severe pain, neurological symptoms, and the risk of further complications if left untreated.

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<div>Why Surgery Is Needed

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<div>Doctors have determined Thunder needs specialized brain surgery to relieve the pressure on her brain and restore proper CSF flow. <strong>This surgery is critical to reducing her pain, protecting her neurological function, and improving her quality of life.</strong>

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<div>The hospital where her surgery will take place is approximately four hours from home, requiring travel and extended stays. As her grandmother, guardian, and full-time caregiver, I must stay with her throughout surgery and recovery.

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<div>During this time, I will be unable to work, making it difficult to keep up with basic household bills while also facing mounting medical and travel expenses.

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<div>How Your Support Helps

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<div>Donations will go directly toward:

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<div>Pre-operative testing and surgical expenses

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<div>Travel, lodging, and meals for medical care four hours from home

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<div>Post-operative care, rehabilitation, and physical therapy

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<div>Household bills and essential living expenses while I remain by Thunder’s side as her caregiver

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<div>Please Help Us Give Thunder a Future

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<div>Thunder has already lost her mother and continues to show incredible strength through pain and uncertainty no child should face. With your help, we can focus on her healing instead of the fear of financial hardship.

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<div>If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing this page. Every prayer, share, and act of kindness truly matters.

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<div>Thank you for supporting Thunder and our family during this difficult journey.

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Anonymous

Rebecca Budde

Christine Kopp

Brittany Streck

Aidan Craig

Jayde Terry

Randall Wendt

Sharon Carlson

Thomas Becker

Ardith and Ray Kangas

Connie Chandler

John Threesixteen

Kathryn Parins

One Brave Girl.  One Life-Saving Surgery

One Brave Girl. One Life-Saving Surgery

Still $13,077 to go. Help us build momentum.