Support Maria Phoebus' Life-Changing Brain Surgery

My name is Melissa Chmielewski, and I’m asking for help for my daughter, Maria Phoebus. Maria is scheduled for an upcoming brain surgery, called Anterior Thalamic Nucleus DBS. She is resistant to anti-seizure medications, and this surgery will help control the 15-20 per month that she has. I truly appreciate you taking a moment to read my story.

As many of you know, Maria has severe epilepsy. This began when she was 5, and was diagnosed with encephalitis, which left her with intellectual disabilities, and complex partial seizures. She contracted the Eastern Equine virus from an infected mosquito. They did not think she would survive, but thanks to many prayers, and a miracle, she is still with us. Through all of these seizures, Maria has retained her wit and good humor, and is always ready to make someone laugh. She enjoys listening to her cd’s, collecting Care Bears, and quoting funny lines from her favorite Disney movies, SpongeBob, and Scooby. She attends a day program at Penn Mar.

The surgery will take place at the University of Penn Hospital in Philadelphia, on October 16, 2024. As a single mother, on a limited income, I will have difficulty providing the money that is needed for travel expenses and hotel accommodations. Any contributions will be used towards this. The procedure will require 7-8 trips, including the pre-op, a specialized MRI, surgery stay, and post surgical checkups.

Any money contributed will be greatly appreciated, and if not able to contribute, we ask that you join her family in surrounding Maria with prayers. Thank you.