Vivianna's Medical Expenses

Hi, I am Gail Emerson and I'm fundraising for Shannon Bell's daughter, Vivianna. When Vivianna was in 8th grade (2019) she was diagnosed with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome--POTS.

In the 9th grade, her condition declined drastically. She constantly passed out in class and experienced anaphylaxis--both are common with POTS. She was removed from school and placed homebound. In June 2021, she started to have non-epileptic seizures and idiopathic anaphylaxis. Unfortunately, both of these are a result of the POTS. Vivianna can experience as many as fifty episodes in a day. At times, her anaphylaxis episodes are so frequent that she needs epinephrine every day. Last year, she was hospitalized thirty times. In the last month, it has been six. She has had two concussions from falls due to seizures.

Vivianna's medical journey has faced numerous hurdles. For example, she made great strides with physical therapy because it taught her how to recognize a seizure and gain control. However, the owner of Chesterfield Physical Therapy (1300 Alverser Plaza) saw her seize during a visit and became visibly angry. She did not want to assume an injury liability. Shannon is now looking for a new physical therapist.

The medical bills are excessive and the medications needed to regulate Vivianna's condition are equally expensive. Specialists sent a referral to the Mayo clinic. There is hope for the best doctors to help Vivianna in one sense. But, this too is costly.

I'm starting this fundraiser to help offset some of the medical bills for the Bell family. The funds raised will be given to the Bells for Vivanna's medical bills. Please pray for the Bell family during this time. This continues to be an intense journey, and in many ways, they are very weary.