Grace Cottrell's Reconstructive Surgery

Miss Grace Drew Cottrell is a charmer, through and through. If you’ve met her in person, you have been greeted with the largest toothless smile you've ever seen, backed by the confidence of a 9-month-old-going-on-30. But don’t be fooled by her sweet disposition-- Grace is a fighter. Anything her twin sister Merritt can do Grace has proven she can do too. We know this combination of strength and determination with her natural optimism and cheerfulness is a gift from God, specifically equipping her for her challenges ahead.

The beginning of these challenges started in December of 2017 when we got the news that Grace's lower legs were not forming properly in utero. Shortly after she was born she was diagnosed with Fibular Hemimelia, a condition in 1 out of every 40,000 births where the child is born with partial or no fibula bones (Grace's condition is bilateral, which is so rare there are actually no statistics on it we could find). She was born with no fibula bones,  curved tibias, and three sweet toes on each foot. 

Grace is being treated by the wonderful staff at Shriner's Children's Hospital in Tampa. Initially, the evaluation of Grace's condition led to an amputation recommendation so that she could walk with prosthetics. That recommendation changed after her latest visit when the doctors found an ankle bone that couldn't be found before, making reconstruction surgery previously thought impossible not only possible, but the best option for her! This news means that after several surgeries and leg lengthening sessions as she grows, Grace will not only be able to walk on her own feet, but have strong, proportional legs to support her.

 While this is the option we have been hoping and praying for, it does come with a heavy financial burden. Reconstruction happens one leg at a time to aid with recovery, meaning  in the first year alone there will be a minimum of 6 trips to and from Tampa, each including costs of hotel rooms for several days, meals, and help for family who will be taking care of Merritt. 

This is where you can be a part of her story. All funds raised will facilitate Grace's  care, and will allow her family to focus their energy completely on her recovery instead of financial anxieties. Any amount you are able to give will truly make a difference. Thank you for taking the time to learn about Grace's story, and we ask that you join us in praying for her continued healing, quick recovery, and successful rehabilitation.