Dear Friends,

After further discussions with a large number of specialists, we have rescheduled Olivia’s spinal decompression and fusion surgery at the Paley Institute for Monday, January 30th.

Since arriving in October, we have been out of pocket for all of Olivia’s medical procedures, imaging and tests. Expenses are immense. There is still an uphill mountain for us to climb in order to achieve the necessary funds for surgery on January 30th. Our current target is $300,000.

Spending the past three months with our lives on pause has been one of the most challenging, roller coaster rides we’ve ever experienced. We are grateful for all the support from family and close friends. We’ve gained a great deal of knowledge about her rare condition, asked many unanswerable questions, spent sleepless nights pondering the uncertain future; there have been many days when we just didn’t know where to turn.

The family has now split duties in order to focus on everyone’s needs. Her mother is staying in Florida in order to focus on preoperative tests and continue to enforce Olivia’s strength and immunity.

We appreciate everyone’s help during this difficult time.

Wishing you a happy and healthy New Year.

The Lugani Family