Hi, my name is Kyla, and I’m writing on behalf of my cousin Marissa, her husband Jock, and their sweet 6-year-old son, Kace.

Just days before Christmas, Kace was diagnosed with bacterial meningitis, turning what should have been a joyful season into a medical emergency. He was hospitalized immediately and spent 16 days in the hospital battling serious illness.

During that initial hospitalization, the infection caused eight mini strokes, creating blockages in his brain. Doctors believe these blockages prevented the IV antibiotics from fully reaching the infection. Although Kace was eventually able to come home, his recovery was far from complete.

After only 10 days at home, Kace’s symptoms returned. On January 18, he was readmitted to the hospital. This time, doctors discovered an abscess in his cervical spine, located in the epidural space. Kace now requires at least four weeks of IV antibiotics, and it's still unclear when he will be able to safely return to school.

During this critical time, Marissa must be by Kace’s side full-time — not only advocating for his care, but acting as his primary caregiver and nurse at home. She is responsible for administering his IV antibiotics, managing and giving his medications, closely monitoring his condition, and supporting him through every step of recovery as he fights this life-threatening and life-altering illness.

Because of the intensity and necessity of this care, Marissa is unable to return to work. She is currently on unpaid FMLA leave, which protects her job but provides no income, placing significant financial strain on their family during an already overwhelming time.

We are asking for support to help with:

• Lost income during Marissa’s unpaid FMLA leave

• Travel, meals, and daily living expenses during extended hospital stays and at-home care

• Mounting medical bills, including current treatment and hospitalization costs

• Future medical and recovery needs, as it is still unknown what long-term effects Kace may face as a result of bacterial meningitis, including potential impacts to mobility, vision, or neurological function.

While doctors are hopeful, the uncertainty surrounding Kace’s recovery makes this journey especially challenging for Marissa and Jock as they focus entirely on his health and well-being.

Their hope is simple: to get Kace through this safely and give him the time, care, and support he needs to heal and thrive.

Any donation, no matter the amount, is deeply appreciated. If you’re unable to give, prayers, positive thoughts, and sharing this page mean just as much.

Thank you for surrounding Kace, Marissa, and Jock with love and support during this incredibly difficult time.