MARINETTE, Wis. (WFRV) – A young girl with ties to Marinette, Wisconsin is facing a rapidly escalating medical crisis that has left her family urgently seeking financial assistance.
Onnaka Gerloff, who is undergoing chemotherapy for a brain tumor, is now experiencing severe dental complications as a result of her treatment.
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According to her family, the chemotherapy, while essential in fighting the tumor, has significantly damaged her teeth. Several have broken, leaving her in constant pain and at high risk for infection, which has already begun to spread.
The family says her doctors have recommended immediate dental surgery to remove multiple teeth and begin restorative care, a procedure that is critical to her health and well-being.
However, the dental work is not covered by insurance. After reaching out to numerous providers, the Gerloffs have located a clinic willing to perform the surgery, but the procedure must be paid for out of pocket.
The cost is substantial, and the family says they are out of options.
In response, the family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise the necessary funds. They are asking for the public’s support to help relieve Onnaka’s pain and allow her to continue her cancer treatment without additional, preventable complications.
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In addition to the online fundraiser, a local lemonade and bake sale will be held to support Onnaka’s medical and dental care.
The event will take place on Saturday, July 26 at Britties CB, located at 1309 13th St. in Menominee, MI, beginning at 10:00 a.m. All proceeds from the sale will go directly to Onnaka’s care.
Items for sale include baked goods, $10 tumblers, and $15 tumblers with lemonade.
Community members are encouraged to attend or place pre-orders through local organizers.
Those wishing to contribute or learn more about Onnaka’s situation can visit the GoFundMe page.
