UPDATE 12/20/24: Makayla G. has been ill since 11/14/24 and was hospitalized for 3 weeks. Her fever and bloodwork improved over the last three days and she was discharged from the hospital, but is still dealing with a lot of abdominal pain, muscle loss and weakness, and difficulty getting enough to eat and drink due to the pressure around her stomach. (enlarged spleen & liver, along with a dysfunctional gallbladder) The docs decided not to go forward with the bone marrow biopsy because of her slight improvements and the spinal tap didn't show anything more concerning.

She is still being treated with strong antifungal meds for histoplasmosis. The antivirals are completed, so hopefully the mono and cytomegalovirus symptoms will continue trending downward. Both of these types of meds are be very hard on the liver and kidneys, and she already had so much inflammation from the immune response.

We're trying to keep her spirits up, but she is honestly overwhelmed and battling depression from the illnesses, lack of sleep, and inability to eat much or do anything.

She has lost weight and not rested, so the goal is to rest, recover, and replenish nutrition. The gallbladder still needs to be removed, but will have to wait until she is in better shape. She is single and doesn’t have health insurance.

She can't go back to work until she gets strength and stamina back. This is causing greater than normal anxiety for her, so donations will go toward living expenses and medical bills. Any donation is greatly appreciated, and no amount is too small--they all add up!