A Georgia family is fighting for justice after their 2-year-old daughter, Jynesis Daniel, was severely injured at Willoway Preschool in McDonough, requiring multiple surgeries and the amputation of one of her toes. The incident occurred on August 21 when a fire extinguisher reportedly came loose from a wall and struck Jynesis' foot.

For Jynesis' parents, Zacheus and LaTiegre’ Daniel, the initial phone call from the daycare sounded routine but quickly turned into a nightmare. The fire extinguisher falling and striking their daughter's foot was a devastating blow that left them reeling with shock and worry.

“I immediately just broke down, like I was overwhelmed because just the side of my baby’s toes were dangling like they were barely attached to her foot,” Zacheus said.

Jynesis was rushed to Arthur M. Blank Hospital, where doctors attempted to save her injured toes. She underwent two surgeries, and one of her toes had to be amputated to prevent infection.

The injury has left the Daniels family grappling with a life-altering situation. “For her, for us, this is life changing,” LaTiegre’ said. The family has reported the incident to Henry County police and is seeking accountability from Willoway Preschool. This isn't the first time the daycare has faced safety issues; in April, another 2-year-old was left unattended outside for 26 minutes, leading to a fine from the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL).

The previous incident has heightened concerns for Jynesis’ parents, who are questioning whether the daycare took adequate measures to protect their child. The owner of Willoway Preschool declined to comment due to ongoing litigation, but the Daniels family is determined to hold the daycare accountable for the handling of the incident.

“I would like them to be held accountable. It’s not a lot they can actually do because you can’t bring her toe back,” Zacheus said. LaTiegre’ added that she would prefer to see the school shut down to prevent future incidents.

This incident highlights broader systemic issues within childcare facilities and the urgent need for stringent safety regulations and oversight. Black families and communities often face disproportionate risks in such environments due to historical and ongoing systemic neglect and underfunding. Ensuring safe and secure childcare is crucial for the well-being and future of Black children.

Originally reported by Atlanta Black Star