A saving grace for Salena, her battle with CVS

Hi, my name is Samantha, this is my story of my granddaughter's life with Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome. Salena has been under my care since she was 5 weeks old. As an infant, Salena would have random bouts of vomiting with no explanations from doctors or specialists. They would try to point the blame to the formula she was on time after time. After switching to multiple formulas, they then assumed it was just GERD and she would

grow out of it. I believe she has always had a problem with her stomach. I would try to explain to the doctors that it seemed as if her body was rejecting anything that it was given. It got to the point where I could tell from her demeanor that she was about to throw up. This became a cycle averaging about every two to three days that she would have an episode of vomiting. Around the age of three the doctors performed all kinds of testing that would not bring us any answers. After not receiving any answers from the medical professionals, this just became an unfortunate way of life for Salena and our family. We learned to mange it the best we could in hope for the day she would eventually grow out of it, as the Doctors would say. Everyday has been a battle, we must continue to explain ourselves over and over to teachers, friends, and others that when she throws up it is just something that happens. Some look at us like we are crazy, and some have understood that is it something we do not have control over. Salena is now 6 years old, and the vomiting episodes have now led to hospitalizations. In April of 2023 she was hospitalized for 7+ days where they monitored her, completed multiple tests, and later sent us home with no diagnosis and a recommendation to meet with a new Gastroenterologist. She has since been put

on many medications hoping for some relief. Fast forward to September 2023 and Salena is admitted to the hospital once again, going on 7+ days. Just like last time, she is evaluated, tested, and now this time

diagnosed with Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome as she lies in the hospital bed with severe abdominal pains. Along with this diagnosis there seems to be no rhyme or reason as to what the cause may be as they say it is not due to an infection or linked to any other illness. These hospitalizations come with many setbacks for both Salena and our family. Our family will do what it takes to give Salena the healthier life she deserves. However, these tasks and financial hardships come with a daunting cost. On top of it all I am unable to work, and Salena's education becomes at risk with everyday she continues to miss attending school during these episodes of CVS.

If you have had the pleasure of having Salena in your life you know that she comes across as a ray of sunshine! She is a smart and funny kid that has a love for life. You can see that while continuing to battle

this internal sickness she manages to make the best out of every day. She loves to go to school and learn, reading and math are her favorite! She has even managed to become a green belt in karate. She tries to do as much as she can to keep her mind clear. Some days are better than others but with her mindset and strength she will overcome the obstacles. With your support and compassion, every donation big or small will make an impact in Salena's life!