Since March 27, 2023, Laurice’s health has transformed drastically. After contracting COVID-19 in August 2022, she began experiencing severe, daily gout attacks. Once an avid exercise enthusiast, Laurice now struggles with basic daily activities, such as simply getting out of bed. Despite experimenting with herbal remedies, she found no relief. Her doctor prescribed allopurinol to help control her flare-ups, but after two weeks of use, Laurice suffered a devastating allergic reaction. With her kidney function already at Stage 3, the toxicity from allopurinol deteriorated her condition to Stage 4.

The medication triggered burning, bleeding lips and a blistering, painful rash that severely limited Laurice’s mobility. Internally, this reaction resulted in both liver and kidney failure, dramatically elevating her liver enzymes and causing significant kidney injury. The relentless pain and itching also led to dangerous spikes in her blood pressure.

Thankfully, the team at Vanderbilt University Medical Center was able to stabilize her blood pressure, liver, and kidney function. Physicians diagnosed Laurice with Allopurinol-Induced DRESS Syndrome (Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms), a rare and serious allergic response to allopurinol. Laurice’s path to recovery is extensive and requires coordination with specialists in Dermatology, Nephrology, Colon and Rectal Surgery, Infectious Diseases, Endocrinology, Pain Management, and Rheumatology at Vanderbilt, as all these areas have been affected.

A proud 1997 graduate of South Side High School in Jackson, TN, Laurice earned a full scholarship to The Juilliard School in New York City the same year. She has graced Broadway stages and performed in distinguished opera houses and remains deeply connected to her hometown, regularly sharing her talents with the Jackson, TN community. Laurice returned home to care for her mother, father, and daughter, providing both financial and health support. Her father, a retired pastor, is battling Alzheimer’s, while her mother is recovering from liver and kidney transplants. Laurice is also the mother of a 19-year-old sophomore. Now, your support can help alleviate the heavy financial burden Laurice and her family are facing during this challenging time.

Over the past few years, Laurice’s unexpected health challenges have brought immense hardship. She has been hospitalized repeatedly and undergone over 300 treatments, which have taken a major toll on her physically, emotionally, and financially. Complications have arisen, affecting her liver, kidneys, and overall wellbeing. Her ongoing, complex medical care is overseen by Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

Laurice currently receives bi-weekly Krystexxa infusions at the Vanderbilt Therapeutics Infusion Clinic. Each session, lasting five hours, requires the close monitoring of medical staff and includes essential premedications due to the high risks involved. Every twelve weeks, Laurice also receives an ilaris injection to help manage the pain and rheumatology complications caused by her DRESS diagnosis.

In November 2025, Laurice began struggling with breathing and mobility. Her symptoms quickly worsened, and she was rushed to Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Following CT scans, X-rays, and bloodwork, doctors discovered blood clots in her right lung. Due to multiple allergies to blood thinners, finding a safe medication was a challenge—she was prescribed Eliquis and spent ten days in the hospital before being discharged with a medical plan.

After returning home, Laurice’s symptoms intensified. Walking, moving, and simply breathing became increasingly difficult. On December 8, 2025, she was urgently readmitted to Vanderbilt. New scans revealed the blood clots in her lungs had grown. Because of her sensitivities and complications, it has been difficult to effectively treat her clots with anticoagulants. During this hospital stay, Laurice also contracted the flu.

Laurice has now been hospitalized for over 28 days. Doctors have informed her that she cannot be discharged until she reaches a therapeutic level and a clear treatment plan is in place for her pulmonary clots.

Laurice continues to battle DRESS Syndrome, which has introduced numerous complications to her already complex care.

Your donation will go directly toward Laurice’s mounting medical expenses, including ongoing treatments, travel, and essential daily needs. As she embarks on a long road to recovery, your generosity will be a vital source of support and relief.

Laurice is a gifted musician and compassionate member of her community, inspiring and uplifting those around her through her music and selfless dedication. Now, we have a chance to stand together and support Laurice as she fights to regain her health and continue sharing her talents with the world.

Your kindness and support will make a significant difference in Laurice’s journey toward healing. Together, we can help her navigate these hardships and ensure she receives the specialized care she deserves.

Thank you for your prayers, contributions, and steadfast encouragement. Your generosity truly means the world.

Laurice’s Mother, Emma Lanier