ROBERTSDALE – A fundraiser for 12-year-old Cali Hess raised nearly $2,000 on Saturday, March 28.

An active softball player in Robertsdale for several years, as well as All-Star and travel ball participant, Cali, the daughter of Mike and Doddy Hess, collapsed hit her head and experienced multiple seizures at her home.

After months of testing, she was diagnosed with Chiari malformation, usually caused by structural defects in the brain and spinal cord and requires intensive surgery and recovery to relieve pressure on the base of the brain.

The surgery can last anywhere from four to eight hours and expected out of pocket costs for the family is more than $8,000, not to mention cost of medications, loss of income for her parents and any other unexpected costs that may occur.

“Cali is a sweet, beautiful, 12-year-old girl who has an uncanny love for life. Up until recently Cali had been actively involved in sports and is an extremely talented softball player, with a smile that could light up a room,” said Jessica Smith, one of the event’s coordinators. “If you cannot donate financially, we ask that you please keep this amazing little girl and her sweet family in your prayers, during this difficult time.”

The Robertsdale Sports Association hosted a fundraiser on Saturday which raised $900. In addition Central Baldwin Girls Softball presented the Hess family with a $1,000 donation.

The Robertsdale Sports Association will also be holding a benefit yard/bake sale on Saturday, April 18, located on Highway 59 next to Seabreeze Salon between Carolina and Hammond streets in Robertsdale.

All proceeds will go directly to the Hess family. For more information contact Smith at 747-2839, jkasmith1800@yahoo.com, or Amy Harrison, 978-2611, amy11harrison.ah@gmail.com.