A GoFundMe campaign has been created to help support the family of a Calhoun toddler who developed a rare and serious neurological condition following a bout with the flu.
According to the fundraiser, 2-year-old Sarah Lopez was diagnosed with transverse myelitis after she and several of her siblings contracted the flu shortly before Christmas. The condition has left Sarah hospitalized, requiring intensive treatment, including time on a breathing tube and plasma exchange therapy.
The Mayo Clinic describes transverse myelitis as inflammation affecting both sides of a section of the spinal cord. The disorder can damage myelin, the protective coating around nerve fibers, disrupting signals between the spinal cord and the rest of the body. Symptoms may include pain, muscle weakness, and paralysis. Causes can include infections and immune-related illnesses.
Sarah’s mother, Kenia Lopez, said transverse myelitis can rarely develop as a complication of illnesses such as the flu, and in uncommon cases, following vaccination.
The Lopez family said all of the children were diagnosed with Flu A, which has been particularly severe this season. Health officials have reported at least two juvenile deaths in Alabama linked to Flu A this year.
Sarah has been receiving care at Erlanger Hospital since December 20, 2025. While she was initially intubated, she was successfully removed from the breathing tube on December 29. She has since undergone plasma exchange treatments and several days of high-dose steroid therapy. Her family hopes she will be transferred to a rehabilitation facility in Atlanta later this week.
Due to Sarah’s condition, she requires round-the-clock support at the hospital. Kenia Lopez has temporarily stopped working to remain by her daughter’s side. Funds raised through the GoFundMe will help the family manage medical expenses and other financial challenges during Sarah’s recovery.
Those wishing to donate can find the fundraiser at https://gofund.me/f23d6f360.
Photos courtesy of the Gordon Gazette.