It Takes a Village: Follow 'Operation Laura' as It Happens
When Emily Fox's friend was diagnosed with a rare brain condition, Fox knew she'd do whatever she could to help. But she never expected her hometown to rally around her friend, too. Follow along as she documents the journey.
Updated, 3:30 p.m.—The Emily has landed in Los Angeles, where she was greeted by Laura Reed. Grab a tissue BEFORE you click "play."
----------------------------------------- Two friends. Nine days. $50,000. A story so inspiring, it moved strangers to donate.
Lemont resident Emily Fox wasn't about to let friend Laura Reed go without a desperately needed brain surgery. Reed is a full-time missionary whose journey once led her to Africa, where she taught women how to bake as a trade and source of income for their families. She was recently diagnosed with a rare condition called trigeminal neuralgia.
Fox turned to social media to stir the masses to help her friend. Without health insurance, the surgery will cost $97,000; they needed half of that within 7 days in order for the operation to happen. Though still several thousand dollars short at the deadline, Reed's doctor—stunned by the outpouring of support—agreed to the surgery, with faith Reed will pay the rest as soon as possible. The remaining $50,000 must be raised by next Monday.
A week later Fox is on a plane, headed to be with Reed before, during and after the surgery. (An acquaintance even gifted Fox with the frequent flier miles needed for the flight.)
Follow along as Fox provides video updates for all those who made this happen for her friend.
