Missy is the kind of friend who is always there for everyone, no matter what. She’s an amazing mother who has faced more than her share of challenges, and now she needs our help. Her teenage daughter, Gabby, is in the ICU, with a very uncertain road ahead.. Missy would never ask for help herself, but I know how much she’s given to others over the years. Now it’s our turn to give back and show her that she’s not alone.
When I asked for an update, this is what Missy shared ❤️
Our 16-year-old daughter is currently fighting a severe and life-threatening neurological illness that came on suddenly and has turned our world upside down.
She was previously a healthy, vibrant teenager when she developed persistent high fevers and seizures that rapidly escalated into refractory status epilepticus, requiring intensive care. She has spent extended time in the ICU, currently 23 days including periods of medically induced coma, mechanical ventilation, and continuous EEG monitoring to control relentless seizures.
Doctors believe her condition is driven by a severe inflammatory process affecting the brain, such as FIRES (Febrile Infection-Related Epilepsy Syndrome) or autoimmune/vasculitic encephalitis. These conditions are rare, unpredictable, and require aggressive, prolonged treatment. Despite exhaustive testing, the diagnosis is still evolving — a common and painful reality for families facing rare neurologic diseases.
In addition to her neurologic illness, she has faced serious complications from prolonged hospitalization, including infections, swelling, autonomic instability, and nutritional challenges. Each day brings new hurdles, but also new hope as her medical team continues fighting alongside her.
Our family has had to step away from work and normal life to be at her bedside, advocate for her care, and support her recovery. The financial burden of long ICU stays, specialty treatments, travel, missed work, and ongoing care has quickly become overwhelming.
Your donation will help support:
• Medical and hospital-related expenses not covered by insurance
• Travel, lodging, and meals during prolonged hospitalization
• Lost income while caring for our daughter
• Ongoing rehabilitation and long-term recovery needs
Most importantly, we ask for prayers, encouragement, and shared hope. Our daughter is strong, and we believe in her resilience — but we cannot do this alone.
Thank you for standing with our family during the most difficult season of our lives. Every donation, share, and message of support means more than we can ever express.