Hello,

My name is Emma, and I am almost 6 years old.

I was born on 22nd May 2016, and a few weeks later, I was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition called Incontinentia Pigmenti.

When I was 6 months old, my parents noticed that I couldn’t sit on my own, crawl, or keep my balance. My illness affects my nervous system, causing gross motor difficulties and developmental impairment. This means I am unable to walk, crawl, sit, or stand independently.

For the last five years, I have spent a lot of time with therapists, working hard and hoping for even small changes. But lately, progress has slowed due to the stiffness in my arms and legs, which is stopping me from learning new movements.

A Little About Me

I love going to school! I’ve made lots of new friends, and everyone is always happy to see me. I enjoy reading books and working with numbers. I also love playing with my little brother, Yanis, and I can’t wait for the day when I can run and play outside with him!

How You Can Help

My parents have found out about an intervention called Selective Percutaneous Myofascial Lengthening (SPML). This procedure could help eliminate the stiffness in my muscles and give me the chance to move more freely and even walk one day.

After the surgery, I’ll need to work hard in therapy to build my strength and learn new skills that will help me gain the independence I’ve always dreamed of.

This is why I need your support — to help cover the costs of the surgery and the therapies that will follow.

My Promise to You

Please help me on this journey. I promise to share my first steps with you, and even the smallest contribution will mean the world to me.

Thank you so much for reading my story.

With love,

Emma Elena Timofte

Important Information:

7.5% of all donations to Tree of Hope in relation to this appeal will be allocated to the general charitable purposes of Tree of Hope to cover our core operating costs.

If we raise insufficient or surplus funds, the money will be used to support my needs in accordance with Tree of Hope’s charitable objectives. If funds cannot be used for me, they will be transferred to Tree of Hope’s general charitable purposes.