3-y-o with Erb’s palsy needs $3m for life-changing surgery in US

KINGSTON, Jamaica — “Every child deserves the chance to run, play, laugh, and grow without being limited by an injury they never chose.” Three-year-old Ayana Wilson from Riverton City in Kingston, is hoping for that chance, according to her family. The toddler was injured during delivery following shoulder dystocia, resulting in a diagnosis of Erb’s palsy, a condition involving nerve damage affecting the shoulder and arm. Ayana’s caregivers say despite the challenges she faces, she remains a happy, loving and vibrant child who wants what every three-year-old wants: to play with other children, explore the world, and enjoy her childhood. However, the damage to her shoulder and arm has made many ordinary childhood activities difficult. Ayana’s family reached out to Jamaican charity Crisis Support Charity Limited seeking assistance and her case was subsequently brought to Shriners Children’s in Philadelphia, where she has been accepted for further evaluation and treatment. Ayana is scheduled to travel to the United States in October 2026 for medical evaluation and surgery, which the family describes as a chance for a new beginning— to use her arm more freely, play and participate more fully in childhood activities. The three-year-old and her mother, Rosalee Eccles, have already obtained their United States visas, but the cost of traveling and remaining there for approximately six weeks following surgery and recovery is an obstacle to her treatment. Anya’s father works for a local waste management company and the family says his modest income is used to meet their daily needs. Eccles operates a small tuck shop in their community while caring for her family and helping to provide for their everyday expenses. Noting that the cost associated with Anya’s medical journey is far beyond what the family can manage on their own, Crisis Support Charity Limited has shared a fundraising goal of $3 million to help. The funds will assist with:

• Airfare for Ayana and her mother
• Accommodation for approximately six weeks
• Specialised seating and support equipment required following surgery
• Meals and basic living expenses
• Transportation to and from medical appointments
• Other essential expenses associated with Ayana’s medical care and recovery

“Every contribution, regardless of size, can help bring Ayana closer to the treatment she needs. Imagine being three years old and wanting to run, play, climb and participate with other children, while an injury makes many of those activities difficult,” the charity said. “You may not know Ayana personally, but your kindness could become a meaningful part of her life story,” it said, noting that donations, no matter how small, matter. Interested individuals, groups and companies can donate to Crisis Support Charity Limited at www.crisissupportycharity.org, specifying their beneficiary as Ayana Wilson. The charity is urging people who cannot donate to share Ayana’s story. “One child. One opportunity. One community coming together. Let us help Ayana get the chance she deserves,” the charity said.