For anyone fortunate enough to have Zinnia (ZZ) in their life, they know what a ray of sunshine she is! You can't help but smile when you're around her.  At just 7 years old she has bounced back from over 20+ surgeries.  She is resilient and an inspiration to us all with her positive attitude! 

Zinnia was born with spina bifida and recently underwent a complicated, but necessary, surgery to help her live longer and have a better quality of life.  In preparation for the surgery she was in the hospital for almost 2 months with tissue expanders and Halo traction (see video).  On June 18, she underwent a complicated spinal fusion.  She had 4 amazing surgeons working on her for 12 hours (DeVos Children's Hospital, Grand Rapids, MI).  She will be in a body brace for the next 6 to 8 weeks before she begins the long process of rehabilitation.  True to form, Zinnia is bouncing back with her positive attitude.  If anyone can do it, ZZ can! 

Up to this point, Zinnia's parents, Dana & Kevin, have been able to carry her to and from their vehicle.  However, now that she is getting bigger and is in a body brace, that will be impossible.  Modifications to her house will need to be done quickly and we desperately need to obtain a van that can be fitted with a wheelchair lift so ZZ can be independent and get out to spread her sunshine! 

Insurance and Grants will cover a wheelchair ramp and some bathroom accessibility needs.  They will also provide a wheelchair lift and modifications for a van (which are very expensive), however in order to get the lift they will need a van that qualifies.  Insurance will only install a wheelchair lift and do van modifications ONE TIME. They will need the newest van possible so that it can hopefully last Zinnia through her school years. 

We (Dana's sisters) are organizing this GoFundMe to help raise money for this big financial investment.  Zinnia deserves to have the best quality of life possible!  Any donation big or small is greatly appreciated and would help her get one step closer toward independence!   Thank you all for your support, prayers and words of encouragement!!!

You can find more inspiring and  funny videos/pictures of ZZ on her Facebook page and YouTube channel, "Love For Zinnia".