Dakota Vergara

Hi, my name is Donna Lehr and I am attempting to raise funds for my son Dakota Vergara. Dakota is presently 23 years old and has had many medical challenges in his short life, beginning with having his heel cords cut with help from Shriner's and All Children's hospital. In addition, he has multiple hip procedures that led up to having his right hip replaced at the age of 20 as his joints have been deteriorating due to a genetic condition. The surgery has been very problematic, not because his surgeon did something incorrectly but because Dakota was allergic to the stitches. The doctor took the prosthetic hip out and cleaned it out several times but it has continued to be a challenge. Additionally, the doctor found that six of the discs in his back were deteriorating resulting in back surgery to put in a titanium rod and six screws. When the surgery began the surgery he found Dakota actually had 12 deteriorating discs and need 2 rods and six screws. As Dakota was healing he developed a high fever and it was found that he was allergic to titanium and a decision was made to make new rods from a 3D printer. He was allergic to them as well so the next step was for microfiber rods which appears to be successful. Dakota then developed a staph infection and now he's been diagnosed with sepsis emanating from the hip area and he is presently being rushed to Tampa General Hospital for another hip replacement and to receive powerful intravenous antibiotics for treatment for the sepsis.

All of Dakota's medical issues have wiped out his savings and had a tremendous effect on him psychologically as well. He faces a long rehabilitation and it will take him years to pay his medical bills alone.

He faces a long and difficult road ahead. If you can send positive thoughts and energy it would be greatly appreciated. If you are able to make a donation to help him that would be helpful as well. All donations will be used for medical bills and rehabilatation. Dakota and I are eternally grateful to you all and we send much love your way.