Talisa's Fight Against Ameloblastoma

Hi, my name is Charmayne Simpson Purkett, and I, along with community members, are raising money for my niece, Talisa Blount.

 

On February 24, 2022, Talisa's family found out she had Ameloblastoma, a rare tumor in the jaw, which is usually benign- her’s measures 9 inches and is now in her sinus cavity, which has the potential to affect her breathing.

 

Talisa is a 17-year-old with high-functioning Autism. She is brilliant, kind and loving. She is a self-taught artist, and in her spare time, she loves to paint. Talisa and her family are still grieving from the loss of her 19-year-old brother, Firefighter CJ Blount, who was her best friend and protector. So, finding this out has been extremely hard for the family. She had an appointment with Eastern Carolina ENT in Greenville, NC, and doctors say this process needs to move quickly as this type of tumor grows aggressively. Talisa will need surgery that will last about 5-6 hours and includes a team of 5 doctors. As of right now, the doctors will have to remove Talisa’s entire jaw, and they will prayerfully be able to use the bone in her leg to reassemble her jaw. Along with that will come some reconstructive surgery, and it may not be perfect. The doctors also say she will have to learn to talk and eat again.

 

All funds will help Talisa’s family with medical costs and travel expenses. Talisa’s father is a Veteran and retired law enforcement, while her mother is a homemaker, so they only have one income. Any donations would be greatly appreciated as they are unsure what expenses may come up during this journey.

 

Several Martin County, NC community members have met and have formed “Talisa Blount Foundation Inc.” They will also have fundraisers in conjunction with this. There is a Facebook group called “Talisa Blount Foundation Inc.” I will post updates to ensure everyone can follow her on her healing journey.

 

We thank you all in advance for your donations and prayers!