Hi, my name is Sarah. I am starting this fundraiser on behalf of my best friend Stephanie and her 12 year old daughter Olivia.

It was thought Olivia had a sinus infection for most of the month of February. The meds she was on made her physically ill. So earlier last week she had a med change. But nothing changed other than Olivia was not eating and sleeping more. Sunday she was really “off” and it only got worse. After losing feeling in her left arm it was clear she needed to go to the ER.

Within 12 hours she was flown to CHEO by helicopter and in an operating room to remove a life threatening cyst that was growing on her brain. The cyst had caused a stroke which is why she lost feeling in her arm.

Olivia made it through surgery alive (Thank you universe/god/angels etc) but she has a very long recovery with lots of unknowns. Her mom Stephanie will be with her the entire time at CHEO.

At home Olivia has a 10 year old brother who is severely autistic and very busy. Stephanie is typically his main care provider and works as a supply teacher when she’s not taking care of the children, taking them to appointments and therapies. (Did I mention Liv also has ASD). Dad is holding down the fort at home as much as he can. He has just a few days off then needs to return to work as well as be Jackson’s primary care provider with help from Aunt Sarah and other familiar faces to Jackson.

Having their entire lives change in a moment is so hard. There are plenty of costs associated with being away for so long and having to manage kiddos in 2 cities. Not knowing how long recovery is also puts a lot of stress on the family.

Offers of help and support have been expressed so with Stephanie’s permission I have set this up. Well wishes, prayers, Reiki, thoughts etc are being received and appreciated. If you feel you would like to help out financially it is appreciated so much. Funds will be used for whatever Stephanie and Liv need in Ottawa and whatever Jackson and dad needs here at home.

We are all grateful for all the support for Stephanie, Olivia, Jackson and dad.

Thank you for reading this and thank you for loving my best friend and niece. ❤️