Autumn Sponsler has been living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) since birth—a rare condition that affects her connective tissue and makes her body incredibly fragile. Despite everything she faces, Autumn is one of the strongest and most determined people I know. If you know her, you know that nothing stops her. But behind that strength is constant, daily pain. Over time, her condition has led to severe scoliosis in her neck and lower back, which is now causing something even more serious—she is beginning to lose feeling in her legs intermittently. She may be looking at two complex surgeries instead of the one. This surgery is not optional. It is critical to protect her mobility and her future.

Because EDS is so rare and complex, especially with how fragile her tissue is, finding the right surgeon has been incredibly difficult. They have finally found a specialist, Dr. Cyr in Houston, Texas, who has experience performing this type of surgery on EDS patients. Autumn and her mom will need to travel out of state and stay in Houston for an extended period—anywhere from 1 to 3 months—for surgery and recovery. Autumn will need full-time support, and her mom will be by her side every step of the way.

I created this GoFundMe to help ease the financial burden they are facing, including travel to Houston for both of them, temporary housing during recovery, rental car for medical appointments, and food and daily living expenses. This is an incredibly difficult time, and the costs are more than they can handle alone. If you are able to donate, any amount will make a difference. If you can’t donate, please consider sharing this page to help spread the word. Thank you for supporting Autumn and helping her get the care she needs. With gratitude, Robert. Funds will go directly toward medical travel, lodging, and support care for Autumn during her treatment.