Our daughter Anara was born on November 9th, a tiny and perfect newborn who immediately filled our lives with love. But when she was just 23 days old, she suddenly became unresponsive, and we had to call 911. That moment changed everything for our family.

Since then, Anara has gone through more medical procedures in her first month of life than many adults ever will. She has had a spinal tap, extensive infection testing, constant monitoring, EEGs, an MRI, and multiple evaluations with pediatric specialists and neurologists. As her episodes became longer, more frequent, and more severe, she was transferred from our home in Temiskaming Shores to North Bay, and eventually flown by Ornge to CHEO in Ottawa so she could get the specialized care she needs.

Even though she is so young, Anara experiences episodes of complete unresponsiveness and loss of muscle tone, sometimes lasting up to 40 minutes. Her medical team is still searching for answers, and we still do not know how long we will need to be here or what comes next.

Because the Ronald McDonald House is closed for renovations, we have no affordable place to stay in Ottawa. We are paying out of pocket for accommodation, meals, hospital parking, travel, and lost income while staying far from home to be with our baby girl.

We are asking for help so we can remain by Anara’s side as she goes through this frightening and uncertain medical journey. Any support — whether a donation, sharing our story, or keeping our family in your thoughts — means more than we can ever express.

Thank you for supporting our little girl during the hardest days of our lives.

Anara's Family