September 2016
VOL Students Support Fellow Classmate Jourdan Loyola As He Fights A Rare Neuro-Immune Disorder
What started out to be a seemingly innocent cough turned out to be a parent ’ s worst nightmare . Jourdan Loyola , a Kindergarten student at VOL , came home from his 3rd day of school with a cough . His mother thought he seemed less active than usual . After taking antibiotics and other medication , Jourdan improved over time , but then new symptoms arose . He became weak , had severe neck pain , and experienced paralysis in his arm . Jourdan was admitted to Children ’ s Hospital where he underwent several tests . Doctors said he had spinal cord damage , and his immune system was attacking his body , muscles and nerves .
As his condition worsened , the paralysis started effecting his lungs . He eventually developed pneumonia and suffered a collapsed lung . To make matters worse , doctors had only seen one other such case - 3 years ago , in Colorado . Jourdan ’ s condition is very rare .
His family and his doctors are exploring options , but at this time he is being treated with medication and stringent physical therapy . Jourdan has been given the nickname “ Superman ” because of his bravery and strength in his fight to get better . Please keep Jourdan and his family in your prayers .
Several fundraisers are being planned to help Jourdan ’ s family with their enormous financial burden . If you would like to help , or just read more of Jourdan ’ s story , click HERE or visit :
https :// www . facebook . com / JourdanLoyola /? hc _ ref = SEARCH
Jourdan Loyola ’ s kindergarten classmates show their support by wearing tennis shoes in exchange for a donation to help Jourdan ' s family with medical expenses
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