Amy McDonald

Hi everyone, I am starting a GoFundMe on behalf of my friends, Carlos & Brittney, to support their daughter, Coral. I've been friends with Carlos since Myers Park High, and friends with Brittney for over 10 years. Coral is my goddaughter. Coral has had severe medical issues since birth and is still in the hospital. Thank you in advance for your support + reading about her journey below... Coral was born on June 17, 2025, 8 weeks premature, weighing just 3 pounds, 4 ounces. She was diagnosed with Down Syndrome, a congenital heart defect, hypothyroidism, and severe respiratory complications. --------------------- She spent her first 87 days in the NICU before going home for just 1 month. She was readmitted in November 2025 for a common heart surgery for children with Down Syndrome, and sadly has never left the hospital due to so many complications. --------------------- As of Coral’s 1st birthday, she has spent 11 of her 12 months of life *334 days* in the hospital—and her journey is far from over. Since then, she has suffered multiple complications that prevent her from going home. Coral now relies on a tracheostomy and ventilator to help her breathe. Setbacks include: additional heart surgeries, received a permanent pacemaker; battled serious bloodstream infections, pneumonia; collapsed lungs, chronic lung disease, respiratory failure; blood clots, feeding complications. --------------------- Despite everything she has endured, Coral's spirit shines through. She loves music and follows every sound she hears. She adores her stuffed animals, enjoys playing with toys. Her strength, determination, and sweet personality continue to inspire everyone around her. --------------------- Her parents, Carlos and Brittney, have been by her side every step of the way. Together, they spend 12 to 15 hours each day at the hospital while balancing work and the countless responsibilities that come with caring for a medically complex child. For months and counting, they drive daily from Fort Mill, SC to Levine’s Children’s Hospital in Charlotte, more than 50 miles every day between home and the hospital, often surviving on little rest and even less normalcy. --------------------- *Donations will immediately help ease the financial burden of Coral's extended hospitalization and care* Funds will go directly to: Carlos and Brittney staying at the Hospitality House, a temporary lodging nonprofit right behind the hospital. https://www.hospitalityhouseofcharlotte.org/stayinghere Donations will also go to: travel expenses to/from the hospital, meals, specialized baby formula, medical supplies, medical equipment for Coral not fully covered by insurance. Looking ahead, Coral will also require extensive therapies and specialized care when she leaves the hospital. --------------------- Coral’s life is still very fragile and day to day. Carlos and Brittney are trusting God in this. They remain hopeful for more good days than bad. Whether you donate, share Coral's story, or send a message of encouragement, please keep her in your prayers. Every act of support means the world to this family. Thank you for standing with Coral as she continues her fight.