Help Emma Smile: Support for a Brave Fighter

*Update: hospital and home expenses are still handled, but now there is expected to be out of pocket costs for several at home medications that insurance may not cover.  Help is more important now than ever! Thank you!*

My name is Cassie, and I have had the privilege of calling Jacque and Devon dear friends for many years. Their daughter, Emma, was born with Cloacal Exstrophy (OEIS), a rare condition affecting just 1 in 400,000 in the U.S.  At birth, her intestines, bladder, and reproductive organs remained in two pieces and were exposed.  Her spine didn’t completely form.  Neither did her intestines.  This resulted in her being “short gut”. Because of this, Emma has always relied on IV nutrition and G-tube feeds to survive. Due to complications, IV nutrition is no longer an option and they will be hospitalized until the doctors and surgeons can come up with a plan.  Now 13 years old, she has already endured 40 surgeries.

On Wednesday, March 19, 2025, what was supposed to be a routine outpatient procedure turned into a frightening and complicated medical crisis. Now, after 15 days at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, there is still uncertainty about when they will return home. During this time, Jacque is unable to work from home like normal, and Devon has had to miss work to be by Emma’s side through tests and procedures.

Jacque and Devon are the true definition of amazing parents. Through every challenge and medical complication, they have stood strong—fighting with unwavering faith, boundless hope, and endless love for their beautiful little girl. Emma has been a fighter her whole life, facing every challenge with incredible strength. Though the days aren’t always easy, her greatest wish is simply to be a kid—free to laugh, play, be with her animals, and experience life beyond hospital walls. Her resilience is nothing short of inspiring.

Any support would mean the world to this struggling family. While most medical and household bills are covered, we want to help them spoil Emma with all the food, toys, and little joys that make her smile.  Living away from home is getting expensive.  The goal is ease some of the financial strain from these new and unexpected expenses and their lost income.  If you are unable to give, your prayers and encouragement would be deeply appreciated as they navigate this difficult journey.

Thank you for your kindness, support, and love. God bless!