Help Us Help Lakin!

Denny’s Electric has installed a generator that will automatically turn on in the case of a power outage. This is needed to power Lakin’s ventilator, oxygen, feeding tube pump, and suction machine to work. Denny’s Electric is looking to assist in getting the entire balance of this project taken care of for the family.

Here is Lakin's story:

I want to tell you about my journey through life. I was born in Worthington, MN to my parents Eric and Lori Dvorak. I have two brothers Alex and Aiden. When I was born people couldn’t believe how much I looked like my dad. I have his nose, there is no mistaking that! I also have my mom’s beautiful smile!

My birth went as planned but within a day in the hospital, the doctors began to piece together things that were a little concerning. After many tests and trips to Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, they diagnosed me with semi lobar holoprosencephaly. This means that my brain did not divide into two separate lobes, which has led me to have many challenges in my life.

I am not able to walk, talk or eat. I have a feeding tube for my nutrition and I let my mom and dad know what I want with my expressions. There is never a doubt about what kind of mood I’m in just by the look on my face! I still smile and laugh a lot and I like to keep my mom and dad on their toes!

The last few years have been especially difficult. I was hospitalized with pneumonia in Fargo which led me to be sent home with a tracheostomy and oxygen therapy. My parents adjusted to this change although it made things more challenging. This past year then led to another episode of pneumonia. I was in Bismarck for a couple of weeks and they decided that it was necessary for me to come home on a ventilator because of how severely my lungs were damaged from previous pneumonia. I cannot breathe for long periods of time on my own and the ventilator is vital for me. This was very overwhelming for my family and they had to learn in 2 weeks what a Respiratory Therapist has four years to perfect! I have also endured close to 30 surgeries for different orthopedic issues.

My mom is unable to work because I need 24-hour around the clock care. She wouldn’t want it any other way, but it does make for some financial difficulties.

Thank you for listening to my journey through life. I know that my family appreciates any help that you may be able to provide for this newest necessary investment.