Rush Co. girl found drowning is improving, fundraiser launched

(RUSHVILLE, Ind.) – A Rush County toddler who was found drowning in a flooded basement last week is showing significant signs of improvement, her family says. 

2-year-old Alayna was found by her mother who immediately performed life-saving measures while Alayna’s 13-year-old brother called and stayed on the phone with 9-1-1. 

Police and paramedics raced to the scene but were initially unable to get to the home because of flooding. A farmer helped the first responders get through the high waters and to the house. 

Alayna was later flown to an Indianapolis hospital and had been on a ventilator fighting for her life over the weekend.

On Monday, Alayna’s aunt provided an update that revealed that the young girl is continuing to improve.

Alayna is no longer sedated and neurology has given her a clean bill of health, her aunt said. 

“Her mom also shared that Alayna had a FaceTime call with her brother and actually called for him by his special nickname, 'Bubby,' and reached toward him through the phone,” she added. 

The aunt added that there are more tests to be done including what specific bacteria is causing infection in her lungs. 

Fundraiser Launched:

This family not only endured this tragic incident with their daughter. Their home was also flooded. 

Alayna’s mom is a stay-at-home mother and her husband is a carpenter and the sole provider.

He is currently unable to work due to the medical and living situations.

A Go Fund Me has been launched and the funds will be used to provide financial relief for the family.

The money will provide transportation to the hospital, food, medical costs, hospital bills and flood-related cleanup

“This is not meant to cover every expense they may face. Rather, it is an effort to help ease some of the immediate financial pressure so [they] can focus on what matters most right now: being there for Alayna and supporting their children,” the aunt said. 

You can access the Go Fund Me by clicking this link.