On the afternoon of February 2, 2003, 5½-year-old Alana Yaksich spent the day with her parents and brothers watching movies, eating sundaes and playing. Although she had a low-grade fever from a recent sore throat (for which she had finished a course of antibiotics), Alana enjoyed the afternoon feeling healthy, surrounded by her family. Later that evening, Alana developed a 106° F fever and was rushed to the emergency room.

Within 24 hours of her arrival at the local hospital, Alana died of flu-related complications that caused swelling and injury to her brain.

Because of this tragedy, Alana’s parents have established ALANA’S Flu Foundation, which educates the public about the importance of yearly flu vaccinations.

For more information, please visit http://www.alanasflufoundation.org.