On an average Wednesday night in the middle of May, Ayaa McDaniels, a vibrant 18-year-old girl, had no idea her life would change dramatically.
That evening, Ayaa began having nerve pain in her back, and within 48 hours, the pain escalated dramatically, affecting her ability to walk, sleep, and eat.
After many tests at her local hospital, Ayaa was eventually airlifted to Oakland Children’s hospital, where she was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome.
“Guillain-Barre syndrome is a rare disease affecting the myelin sheath of the nerves,” Ayaa’s stepmom Becky wrote on a GoFundMe page.
“It progresses quickly and is extremely debilitating physically and, in Ayaa’s case, immensely painful.”
“There is a phase of paralyzation, and most patients have to relearn to walk. She will recover, but it is unknown the amount of months of rehabilitation it could take at this time.”
Unfortunately, this all happened right before her high school graduation and 18th birthday.
As of right now, Ayaa has been getting the best treatments and care possible at Oakland Children’s hospital. She is surrounded day and night by many nurses, doctors, and her parents.
GoFundMe; pictured above is Ayaa
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So far, during her recovery, Ayaa has needed at least one of her parents by her side at all times. Not only to advocate for her but support her pain management and mental wellness throughout this trying time.
On May 17th, Ayaa was admitted to the hospital, where she will continue rehabilitation for the next month or more.
While the family has good coverage, there’s no denying between the helicopter ride and treatments, the medical bills will be at an unimaginable price.
In addition, the family is unsure if their insurance will cover her being airlifted, to make matters worse.
Ayaa’s parents, Mattie and Ashley, have other children who need their care. One of them lives an hour away from the hospital, while the other parent lives four hours away.
They both have cut their work hours tremendously to be there for their child. Both parents are considering taking a medical leave to ensure Ayaa is never alone and has the best support she needs to get better.
Sadly, there are many unknown factors at the moment with the recovery time for Ayaa. However, best-case scenario, the treatment takes about a month, and then they can continue on with their lives.
However, the uncertainty is unsettling as the medical bills are currently on the rise. Ayaa’s stepmom, Becky Arnett, has started a GoFundMe account to help support the family during this challenging time. You can find more information and updates here.
“With these funds, worry about sleeping well, eating healthily, and having gas money to be with their daughter can be alleviated,” Becky said.
“Also, it can help to provide anything extra that can brighten Ayaa’s days. And lastly, it can relieve the financial stress of any lost wages during this time.”
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