Jazzlin Mejia

On October 29, 2013, five-year-old Jazzlin Mejia, and her father, Gustavo, were traveling along Highway 121 when they were involved in a serious car accident. Little Jazzlin suffered a C6, C7 spinal cord injury which left her with feeling only in her upper body. Three days after the accident, Jazz underwent spinal fusion and today remains in a wheelchair. Her dad suffered serious injuries which included two broken legs and fractured ribs. He too remains in a wheelchair as his legs heal and his future mobility is further assessed (see link below for more on this accident).

Jazz has maintained a strenuous schedule at Children’s Hospital, Oakland consisting of many sessions of speech, occupational and physical therapy six days a week while maintaining her studies with a tutor. Jazz is vivacious and bright, sweet and stronger than I ever imagined. Since the accident, I’ve been able to get to know her very close-knit family and see firsthand the challenges they will face. Prior to her accident, Jazz was a student at Mary Collins at Cherry Valley here in Petaluma (and is in my daughter’s kindergarten class) — where she returned today for the first time since she was injured. She will continue her rigorous therapy schedule even while attending school.

Even with insurance, Jazzlin will have many uninsured injury-related expenses such as: co-pays and deductibles, doctor visits, rehab therapy, home modifications and the purchase of a modified vehicle.

To help offset such expenses, a fundraising campaign in Jazzlin’s honor has been established with HelpHOPELive, a nonprofit organization that has been assisting the transplant community for more than 30 years. In 2000, they expanded their mission to include those who have sustained a catastrophic injury. All contributions are tax-deductible, are held by HelpHOPELive in the Southwest Spinal Cord Injury Fund, and are administered by HelpHOPELive for injury-related expenses only. If you would like to make a contribution, please click the DONATE NOW bar.

My family and I have been a part of this community for nearly 30 years. Throughout that time, we have participated in many events in which the people of Petaluma came together for a cause. On behalf of Jazzy and her family and friends, we thank you for your generosity, support and prayers. Together, we can help Jazzlin live the life she deserves.

Sincerely,

Stephanie Seufert

http://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/20131030/articles/131039994

On April 19, 2014 friends and family are gathering to host a fundraiser in honor of Jazzlin – more information to follow.