Benefit for Marquette 5-Year-Old

Two months ago, Draven Hooper was like any other five-year-old — running, laughing, even getting into a little trouble.

And then he was rushed to the emergency room, where doctors discovered a rare congenital disease that causes bleeding in his brain.

Draven suffers from cerebral AVM’s, which are defects of the circulatory system in the brain.

AVM’s cause headaches, vomiting, and seizures.

Draven required emergency brain surgery to stop the bleeding.

At five years old, Draven has experienced more trauma than most adults could imagine.

And his dad, Tom Hooper, says even though there were fears that he wouldn’t be the same after surgery, it hasn’t affected his playful and carefree spirit.

Draven still has a long way to go.

Next up — a follow–up MRI at Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin in Milwaukee.

A benefit luncheon to help raise money for ongoing hospital and travel expenses is taking place this Sunday from noon to 4 at the Marquette Elks Club.

Tickets are $5 for adults, $2 for children 12 and under.

Donations can also be made at the U.P. Catholic Credit Union under ‘Benefit for Draven Hooper’.