It looks like Melisa Crawford’s wish to have her son home with her for Christmas and safely recovered from surgery, has been granted.
Fifteen-year-old Khailnn Burdock underwent reconstructive surgery at the Children’s Hospital in Vancouver, B.C. on Dec. 3. The surgery means the teen will be free of an ileostomy bag which he needed as a result of being diagnosed with SMAD 4, a gene mutation that attacks the internal organs.
“It was a success,” said Crawford. “And his recovery has been amazing.”
Unfortunately, it seems Burdock’s medical problems are not over, and the young man has now been diagnosed with epilepsy.
“His seizures are becoming more and more frequent, but a lot of it is stress related,” said Crawford.
She is pleased to note, however, that Khailnn gained much needed weight after having the surgery, and the medication he has been prescribed is helping to control the seizures.
Crawford was able to bring her son home to Bluffton last week, and she said he held up on the trip well, though the flight was delayed.
They arrived home at 2 a.m. Dec. 16 and later that day they were busy decorating a Christmas tree.
“It is wonderful to have him here,” she said. “He is an amazing kid.”
Crawford is the mother of five children. Her 13-year-old Sean also lived with her in Bluffton and she is hoping to have all her children, who now live with their father, with her one day.
Born in the United States, Crawford is having trouble making ends meet as she is unable to work in this country as she is not a Canadian citizen.
Support has been coming in from the community and Crawford is grateful for whatever help she receives.
“It just melts your heart. It is so appreciated,” she said.
For more information on the story check out A Family’s Christmas Wish by Melisa Crawford on FundRazr/Facebook. https://fundrazr.com/campaigns/5u687
As well as cash donations, the family is also accepting donations of blankets, medium size Depends, men’s warm winter clothing, size large and shoes, size 13. A washing machine is also needed.
Donations may be made by contacting Melisa at melisacrawford80@outlook.com or 403-704-9452 or Kerrie at 403-704-3011.