Cuts for Cali: Inspiring hope for the Neri family and community

DANNEMORA | Raising a medically complex child is a rollercoaster of highs and lows, seemingly never-ending stressors in the midst of moments of inspiration and normalcy. For the Neri family, a picture-perfect moment playing in the late-October leaves left them on a heartwrenching medical journey for their then 2-year-old daughter Cali, from a quickly spiraling unknown series of medical complications, to a rare diagnosis, coma and long hospital stays in Vermont and Boston. It was a rare case of severe encephalitis caused by the Powassan virus from a tick bite that robbed Cali of her speech, mobility and the life they used to know. NOT FORGOTTEN As Cali continues to defy the odds, her family continues to maneuver the daily challenges of around-the-clock home care, balancing a life of new normalcy for her and her young brother while advocating for tick awareness and improved medical care laws to help other families across the state and nation. Through it all, it's been the community and an unwavering core of supporters that have helped the family rise above and find strength in the unknowns, small moments of everyday successes and many challenges of her care. "While the stress is always on our backs as soon as it feels to heavy to carry, bam our community steps back up and reminds us that we aren't forgotten," Kelsey said as the family continues to struggle with limited North Country resources, from therapies to specialists and waiver programs as they face the daily challenges of bills and rising every day expenses. But it's the community and their network of family and friends that keep the family's hope alive- serving as a steadfast light in even the darkest of days. CUTS FOR CALI With the need for support as constant now as it was then, fundraisers are what help not only remind the community of Cali's story but the family's struggles in the face of adversity. That's why the 3rd Annual Fundraiser for Cali is returning to Brush Against Time Salon Saturday, Aug. 30, when owners and organizers will once again unite the community behind Cali and the Neri family. Salon owner Shauna Grube has once again spearheaded a unique effort for $10 back-to-school haircuts with a wide range of other offerings to help raise much-needed funds for the family. This year, in addition to the Clinton County Health Department providing tick prevention information and removal kits, Hannah Dresser will bring her Sippin' Pretty Soda Shop for refreshing drinks as Taylor Perry sets up shop with Timeless Links jewelry. A lemonade stand will also help raise funds as Mema's brings their famous baked treats and community icon Mr. B sells handmade tees to help as well. Monetary donations will also be accepted. Funds raised will go directly to Cali's physical therapy and mortgage costs to help the Neris keep her safe, supported and at home where she belongs. "Cali has overcome so much despite her chronic, complex health needs, and I know it's because of the love and support she receives from this community," Kelsey said. "Every time the pressure feels crushing and I wonder how we'll keep going, (the community) shows up. You remind us we're not alone." The Back-to-School Cuts fundraiser is being held Saturday, Aug. 30, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Brush Against Time Salon at 1133 Cook St., in Dannemora. To learn more about Cali's journey, Powassan virus and to stay up-to-date on the family's path forward, join and follow the Courageously Living Facebook page.

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Cuts for Cali: Inspiring hope for the Neri family and community

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