FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) — A Fresno family fighting to help their young daughter walk is now receiving support from the community and Fresno City Councilwoman Annalisa Perea.

For nearly two years, 22-month-old Ahzunea Mondragon-Lyday’s parents have been navigating what they call an “everyday battle.”

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Their daughter was born with Costello syndrome, a rare genetic condition that affects growth, development, and multiple body systems.

The disorder can also put children at higher risk for cancer and other serious illnesses.

“Every three months she’s getting checked for cancer because she can be high risk for it,” said her mother, Shirley Mondragon-Lyday. “She does have kidney problems, she has GI problems, heart problems.”

Ahzunea spent the first seven months of her life in the NICU.

Her parents say even minor illnesses can quickly become dangerous.

Now, her family is working to raise $7,000 for a custom stander, a specialized mobility walker designed specifically for her petite size, which could help her build strength and eventually learn to walk.

The family says their insurance has denied coverage three times.

“We’ve been denied through insurance,” Mondragon-Lyday said. “Unfortunately with the budget cuts going on, we’ve struggled to get other agencies to help us,.”

They say they have reached out to regional centers and disability programs but have been waitlisted or told there are no loaner devices available in Ahzunea’s size.

Because of that, the family has turned to community fundraisers, raffles and vendor events to help cover the cost.

Now Fresno City Councilwoman Annalisa Perea is stepping in.

After learning about Ahzunea’s story, she announced she would match community donations up to $1,000 to help the family reach their goal.

“We often talk about the strength of our community, and moments like this are when that strength truly shines,” Perea said in a statement. “Ahzunea has already overcome more challenges than most children her age, and now our community has the opportunity to help change her future.”

Perea also thanked American Ambulance and Vista Consulting for making early contributions toward the $7,000 goal.

Every dollar brings Ahzunea one step closer to the mobility and independence she deserves.

Community members who would like to donate or learn more can visit the family’s GoFundMe page.

So far they’ve raised $2,534.

Her parents say every donation, share and word of encouragement helps bring Ahzunea one step closer to standing on her own.