At just 20 years old, Canadian athlete Brooklyn Aleksic has faced a life-changing event. Preparing for a summer job, Brooklyn woke up one day unable to move and was soon diagnosed with transverse myelitis, a serious spinal cord inflammation. Within two hours, she was paralyzed from the neck down.
Her mother shared with CTV News how quickly Brooklyn’s condition worsened. The GoFundMe page, started by Brooklyn’s curling coach, explains that she lost all sensation and movement below her chest. Brooklyn cannot sit up or care for herself. Although there is hope for recovery, the process will be long and costly.
Brooklyn is undergoing plasma exchange treatments, which require plasma donations from many donors. Her coach noted that 14 treatments need plasma from about 175 people. Brooklyn encourages those who can donate to join “Brook’s Plasma Pals” at blood.ca.
The fundraiser helps cover medical expenses, equipment, and care as Brooklyn adjusts to her new reality. Despite the hardship, Brooklyn remains upbeat and grateful, inspiring her loved ones. The family asks for support through donations or sharing the fundraiser.