Emily Grace Klima was born premature at 27 weeks. She was diagnosed with grade three brain bleeds, which results in a diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy. Emily's Cerebral Palsy is such that there is already the beginning of a mild rotation of her hips and "stiffness" in lower extremities which is interfering with her ability to walk.

Cerebral Palsy is the result of irreversible brain damage which affects movement and posture. It often leads to lifelong disabilities. The disease currently interferes with her ability to walk and is inhibiting her muscle growth. In May 2011, the Klima Family will be traveling to St. Louis to undergo a life changing spinal surgery, called Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy. This surgery will lessen the "stiffness" created by Emily's Cerebral Palsy. To follow Emily's surgery recovery and treatment, click on the tab above for Caring Bridge or go to https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/emilygraceklima

Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy is a neurosurgical procedure that severs problematic sensory nerve rootlets attached to the spine reducing input from sensory fibers. Because of the Cerebral Palsy, Emily's brain is unable to influence the amount of flexibility a muscle should have. The Dorsal Rhizotomy reduces the amount of messages sent to the muscle, thus lessening Emily's "stiffness". Left untreated, permanent orthopedic deformities could result eventually placing Emily in a wheel chair unable to move. After surgery, Emily will need a special wheelchair and will undergo aggressive therapy learning to walk and perform activities for daily living such as dressing herself, brushing her hair, etc. The road is long and uncertain.

Insurance coverage has not been "approved" to date and costs are in excess of $43,000 before travel, lodging, food, etc. There recently was a benefit held. The money raised that will assist the Klima's with past, present & future medical expenses. The Klima's appreciate the efforts made by everyone who helped make the event a success and everyone who attended this event.

Monetary gifts may be made via PayPal above or checks made payable to "Emily's Graceful Walk" can be forwarded to Citizen's Bank, 4964 Transit Road, Depew, NY 14043 or sent to:

Emily's Graceful Walk
27 Brauncroft Lane
Amherst, NY 14226