Monica has always been the first to lend a hand in her community. Whether she’s collecting supplies for flood victims, organizing clothing swaps and donation drives, or offering child care to those in need, Monica is known for showing up when it matters most. Her work in child and pet care has connected her with countless families and pets across Pittsburgh, and she’s built a reputation for reliability, kindness, and generosity.

Over the past year, Monica has gone to great lengths to heal an achilles tendon rupture she sustained at a King Gizzard show in Cleveland. After many months of PT she was still in tremendous pain, unable to work full time, and wasn’t seeing results. Last month she sought a second opinion, another MRI was done, and that doctor diagnosed her with chronic tendonosis. The only way to properly address this condition, and regain full mobility is through surgery. This involves having her tendon repaired through a process called Debridement, and then transferring a different healthy tendon from her foot by anchoring it alongside her achilles with interference screws in order to aid her degrading achilles in weight bearing.

Now, Monica is facing a challenging time. Her surgery takes place on 9/24/25, and then she will begin the long and difficult healing process. She will be unable to work for the next 12 weeks while she recovers. Her 6-8 weeks post op she will be completely non weight bearing, unable to drive, and relying on a wheelchair. When she begins PT, she will be using mobility aids to return to walking. Although she’ll have help at home, Monica won’t be able to work during this recovery time, and being sidelined means she won’t be able to cover her rent and essential expenses for the rest of the year. Monica needs support from the same community she’s always cared for.

Your contribution will help Monica keep her home, sustain being non-load-bearing for many weeks, and focus on healing. She hopes that this will be a smooth recovery this time around, and is eager to get back to doing what she loves—supporting live music, caring for pets and showing up for her neighbors, and going on great adventures. Every donation, no matter the size, will make a difference in her recovery and her ability to return to the community, work, and activities she loves.