Gracie is my 9 year old niece who suffers from chronic pancreatitis. Over the last three years she has been hospitalized over 5 times for this between Minot and Bismarck. After a few hospitalizations it was discovered that Gracie had a Pancreatic Enzyme Deficiency in which she now has to take pills for the remainder of her life for this issue due to her pancreas not producing enough enzymes to normally digest food. Gracie's last bout of pancreatitis landed her in the hospital the beginning of August, just last month. After that hospitalization it was discovered that Gracie also has the gene PRSS1 mutation which is, Chronic Hereditary Dominant Pancreatitis. The background to all of these issues. She was then referred down to the U of M Masonic Children's Hospital by he Pediatric GI doctor from Fargo. After they viewed Gracie's case and the severity of her issues are going forth with a TPIAT (Total Pancreatectomy with Auto Islet Transplantation). This surgery includes removal of her pancreas (as well as other organs (Spleen and Appendix) that could complicate her recovery, removing the islets from her pancreas purifying them and then infusing them into her liver to prevent her from being a diabetic. This surgery will be done down in Minneapolis. The family will have to take a trip down the first week in November and meet with 10-12 different physicians over a 4 day period for pre-op work done. There Gracie will have labs, an MRI, Sweat Test (Cystic-Fibrosis) diagnoses, as well as other appointments. The surgery is TBS at this point once these tests are done more will be determined for that part. Once the surgery takes place, Gracie will be in surgery for 8-1o hours with a 2 week recovery hospital stay as well as multiple follow up appointments. Gracie's medical insurance will cover most medical costs, however the family is going to be in need of help for Travel; Lodging, Gas, Meal, etc.,. As well as the stress of bills back home, as they will be gone for multiple periods of time. For those that have followed Gracie's story throughout the years and know her personally as a bright little girl, any help will be GREATLY appreciated! Thank you.

**Updates will also be given as the journey continues with her appointments, hospital stays, and her surgical journey.**