North Iowa residents have quickly rallied around a young girl who was recently diagnosed with meningitis. Seven-year-old Jenessa Patten of Charles City became ill over the weekend and was diagnosed with the life-threatening disease. News of Jenessa’s condition spread online and efforts quickly began to send prayers, thoughts, and financial assistance to help the Patten family.
Many businesses, parks, and houses throughout Charles City are displaying purple ribbons and messages of hope for Jenessa and her family who are currently at a hospital in Iowa City. On Facebook, a group titled “Prayers for Jenessa” was created and people all over the country are showing their support.
The Floyd County Public Health Department is addressing concerns area residents might have. In a press release, the department says the county and hospital have not seen any cases of meningitis that is spread from person to person within the past year or more.
(Reporting by Angela Barton, KCHA, Charles City)