CAMPBELL RIVER, B.C. – Grassroots, Kind Hearts founder Krisandra Rufus needs the community’s support.
Her 13-year-old daughter Irene started feeling back pain in January. She said they took her to the doctor five to six times, but they were told it was nothing to worry about.
But the pain worsened to the point that Irene couldn’t breathe, so Rufus took her to the hospital. There, MRI tests were done and doctors told Rufus she had to bring her daughter to the BC Children’s Hospital for spinal infection treatment.
That was two weeks ago and now, doctors at BC Children’s have told her that Irene must stay in Vancouver for six weeks to get treated and have a chance to recover.
“She was suffering so long from the infection, they (the doctors) were worried that it would damage her other organs because it got into her bloodstream,” Rufus said.
Fortunately, Irene’s other organs are unaffected. According to Rufus, the infection has affected two of Irene’s middle vertebrae, which is making it difficult for the teen to move or walk.
A GoFundMe page has been set up for the family to help them pay for accommodation and travel expenses.
Sue Wallis is a Grassroots, Kind Hearts volunteer, and she said that it’s the community’s turn to give back to Rufus and her family.
“She gives so much to the community, and I think it’s time that we do the same. It’s expensive in Vancouver, and she’s got other children,” Wallis said.
Rufus said she is grateful for the community’s help during a difficult time.
“I’m just not used to being on the other side. I’m usually the one that’s helping everybody, but I would just like to thank everybody for their support.”
