Little Girl, 5, Has Medical Emergency: 'She Is A Ray Of Sunshine'

WADING RIVER, NY — A kindergartner from Wading River is facing a medical crisis and the community is opening its arms to help.

A GoFundMe page, "Help Giuliana's Family with Medical Expenses," was created by Kaitlyn Rodriguez on behalf of Pamela Chacon Ortiz, to help Giuliana, 5, who attends Aquebogue Elementary School.

"On May 17, a student of mine experienced a life-threatening medical emergency," Rodriguez said. Giuliana experienced a medical emergency and was airlifted from school to Stony Brook University Hospital, where she was rushed into emergency surgery, she said.

"That day, Giuliana had two different operations before her mother and father were able to see her. That night and the next day were full of waiting and monitoring, giving her body and brain a chance to rest," Rodriguez said. "Two days after she entered the hospital, Giuliana developed pneumonia and began to have seizures, which was devastating news. It turns out that Giuliana experienced an AVM rupture, which means that she experienced the rupturing of blood vessels in her brain, causing a hemorrhage."

According to mayoclinic.org, an AVM is an arteriovenous malformation, "an abnormal tangle of blood vessels connecting arteries and veins, which disrupts normal blood flow and oxygen circulation."

Friends and family are rallying to help a little girl who is loved by many.

"Giuliana is one of those kids who makes a lasting impact on the lives of those she meets. Since the first day of school, Giuliana has shown just how remarkable she truly is," Rodriguez said. "She is the kid who is always happy, always excited to learn new things, and always showing those around her how much she cares. From complimenting her classmates, to running to her teachers to give them a hug in the morning, Giuliana is a ray of sunshine for all those around her."

She added: "Giuliana is the daughter of two incredible parents, Pamela and Erick, and the sibling of her older brother, Carlos, and twin sister, Isabella. Her parents are the type of parents who do everything they can for their children, who teach their kids to be kind people, and to always do their best. Her siblings care for each other and have a strong bond, one that will only grow as the years go on."

During the past few days, she said, "By the grace of God, Giuliana has been making small improvements."

But, Rodriguez said, costs are adding up quickly.

"From daily parking fees for both parents to be with Giuliana, to the costs of her procedures and medical care," her family needs help, she said. "Let’s get this family the financial assistance they deserve, so they can focus all their energy on their daughter’s healing."

To donate, click here.

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