My niece Viviana is such an amazing young girl. She is bright, beautiful, and a ball of energy. Viviana certainly does not have an easy life, but she has not been one to complain or slow down.

This wonderful seven year old had a "freak accident" a little over two years ago when she had an asthma attack that at first left her fighting for her life.  She has been diagnosed with Acute Flaccid Myelitis and "Hopkins Syndrome" that has left her with with total paralysis of her left arm, upper:lower chest on that side, and limited use of her right arm. 

Viviana spent weeks in the PICU at Eastern Maine Medical Center where she gained some strength and had to relearn how to breathe on her own and walk, as well as many other basic skills. In the two years following, Viv has created a new normal for herself, never showing any signs of defeat. She has gone to physical therapy and occupational therapy to gain so many new skills. She is a star student, has been on the local youth soccer team and a lovely friend to all those who know her.

Recently, Viviana's parents had heard of a doctor in Los Angeles who has been working with other kids similar to Viviana doing nerve transplant surgeries to help reverse the effects of the paralysis cause by the AFM. They decided that they would have to reach out to Dr. Mitch Seruya and see if Viviana could be a candidate for this life changing surgery. Viviana and her parents traveled to LA this past December and met with Dr. Seruya. Their three day trip included many rounds of extensive testing to get the full picture of Viv's situation and the best approach for potential repair.

Testing has revealed Viviana has more extensive nerve/muscle damage than we ever knew. This was devastating news to receive, as now this has become a much more urgent situation beyond the use of her arms. Viviana has taught herself a new way to breathe without the use of most of her diaphragm but this can cause major stress on her other organs throughout time. It is truly amazing that she functions as well as she does on a daily basis with only being able to use 40% of her system, but Pulmonologists/team of drs are extremely concerned for Vivs well being

In light of new test findings, Dr Seruya's focus has shifted to Viviana’s extremely weakened respiratory system as they fear she would not survive an asthma attack. More testing & potential nerve/muscle transplant surgery are already being scheduled with further trips out West in order.

Viviana is a fighter who deserves the best life has to give her. She and her family could use any support that you are willing to donate. Funds will be collected by her mother Catherine(Cat), and will be used toward's Viviana's medical bills, some airfare and travel expenses, as well as put towards any future potential treatment.

Our whole family would be forever grateful for any donations and we could use your prayers. Thank-you.