Sophia's Support Fund

I am creating this GoFundMe for my beautiful niece, Sophia. In loving memory of her mother, my sister, Mary-ann Fallow.
Sophia's short 7 years of life have involved some challenges that most would find insurmountable. The most recent, of course, being the loss of her mother. 
I want to note that Sophia is in the process of being adopted by her grandparents, and she is very much loved and cared for. My goal in raising money is to help provide some financial relief, as they face all these extra funeral and adoption expenses. Caring for a child with extra needs also requires a certain amount of extra patience, time, resources and supplies. My parents, Heather and Gavin, are incredible people that have always shown me what it means to have a big heart. Over my lifetime, I have seen them selflessly take in anyone who needed it, and put everyone else before themselves. They have no idea that I am creating this- but I hope this is my opportunity to give back just a little of all the love and support they have shown me.

Sophia's story-
My beautiful little niece was born incredibly small, and with two holes in her heart. She was rushed to the neonatal unit and received her first heart surgery within days. Her first year and a half were spent mostly in and out of the hospital. Two more heart surgeries, and a blood infection all before her first birthday. 
A month before Sophia's first birthday, In May 2014, her father, Kevin  passed away of an overdose. This really took it's toll on Sophia's mother, Mary-ann. 
Just before Sophia turned 2, she underwent her 4th heart surgery. Luckily, her health and growth seemed to improve a lot at this time. It was beginning to become clear, however, that she suffered from hypotonia, and other developmental delays. The doctors were puzzled- she did not display any of the typical characteristics of someone with autism or down syndrome and they quickly ruled those out. 
It would be two more years, when Sophia went in to the hospital for her 5th heart surgery, that she would finally receive a formal diagnosis. 
In 2018, Sophia was diagnosed with a rare genetic syndrome called Au-Kline Syndrome. At the time, there were only about 17 or so known cases worldwide. Her mom and grandparents were grateful for a diagnosis, but unlike some other diagnosis, this one did not come with a lot of answers. There are still many unknowns about Au-Kline Syndrome, such as life expectancy. 
Sophia's mother continued to struggle over the years with chronic pain, grief and substance use. Luckily Soph has some incredible grandparents who were always there to ensure she was cared for.
This year, 2020, has proven to be yet another one of Sophia's most difficult years. In March, she underwent her 6th heart surgery. She was so brave and courageous, and things went as well as could be expected.
Sadly, on May 18th, 2020, Mary-ann lost her battle with substance use. Our family will never be the same, never be whole and we have no words to describe the impact this has had. 
Sophia's loving grandparents, as mentions above, are in the process of adopting her. She is back to school and thriving.   

#SophiasSupportFund

Please refer to the video for more details on Au-Kline. Music is of course "Fight Song" by Rachel Platten