Help Sweet Ella Walk Again

Our family’s world changed overnight. Just days ago, our sweet Ella, who had just turned 8 on October 13th, was admitted to the hospital after suddenly losing her balance, coordination, and ability to walk normally. What began as weakness and unexplained weight loss quickly became something much more serious.

After visiting her pediatrician on Thursday, Ella was sent to Maine Medical Center for further testing to rule out a possible mass. Thankfully, doctors confirmed it was not a mass, but Ella is experiencing transverse myelitis — inflammation of the spinal cord that affects movement and coordination.

Doctors are continuing to run tests and believe Ella may have an autoimmune-related nerve disorder, such as CIDP (Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy). While this diagnosis has not yet been confirmed, it would mean a long-term, treatable but not curable condition requiring ongoing therapy and care to help her regain her strength and mobility.

Ella is currently hospitalized at Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital, where her medical team is working tirelessly to determine the exact cause of her symptoms and create the best possible treatment plan for her recovery.

Her dad, Tyler, is self-employed and has been by her side with her mom throughout her hospital stay, providing constant love and comfort. Her mom’s time away from work is currently unpaid, and both parents have already begun feeling the emotional and financial toll of this unexpected journey. Tyler plans to return to work as soon as there is a confirmed diagnosis and care plan in place, but for now, his focus is on supporting Ella through testing and treatment.

The road ahead will include rehabilitation, specialist appointments, and frequent travel to and from the children’s hospital for ongoing care. Our family is doing everything possible to support her, but the financial strain will continue to grow with time away from work and ongoing medical needs.

We’re asking for your help to give Ella the best chance at recovery, to help her regain her strength, independence, and joyful spirit.

Your donation, no matter the size, will go directly toward:

• Travel for hospital visits and rehabilitation

• Medical and therapy expenses not covered by insurance

• Family financial support during this difficult time

If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing Ella’s story and keeping her in your thoughts and prayers. Your love, support, and faith mean more than words can express.

From our family to yours, thank you for helping Ella fight her way back to walking, running, and laughing, just like every child deserves.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Ella’s OG (Grandmother) and Family