My daughter, Emily Miranda, is a bright and loving child who is high functioning autistic. For most of her days, Emily is calm and collected, but there are times when her emotions become overwhelming. Earlier this year, after enduring bullying, Emily reached a breaking point.
On January 27th, 2026, while I was working from home, I heard my wife scream. I rushed to Emily’s room and found her in a state no parent should ever witness. She had attempted to take her own life. In that moment, I did everything I could—I performed CPR until, by the grace of God, we were able to bring her back. Emily suffered an anoxic brain injury and was not expected to recover, but she has continued to defy the odds every day since.
We spent over a month at the ICU, and now Emily is in inpatient rehab. Each day, she surprises us and her medical team with new progress. She can see us, recognize we are there, and continues to show small miracles.
The journey ahead is long, and while the medical care has been incredible, it comes with significant costs. My savings have helped cover some expenses, but the need for a disability van and ongoing medical expenses has put us in debt. Insurance does not cover caregiver support, and we want to ensure Emily has every opportunity to regain her life and independence.
My greatest hope is to see my daughter walk beside me again and hear her say her first words. I am grateful to God and the amazing staff at Children’s Medical for giving me the chance to be a dad one more day.
We have not left her side, and I used all the time he could through FMLA just to be there for my daughter—but that time has now run out.
Now I face the impossible: returning to work while knowing Emily needs constant, lifelong care.
No parent is prepared for this. No family should have to face this alone.
We do not expect much, but if you could pray for Emily, which is reward enough. Any support you can offer will help give Emily every opportunity to heal and thrive. Thank you for your kindness and for keeping our family in your thoughts.