Hi, my name is Karlene, and I’m reaching out with a humbled heart to share my story and ask for your support as I begin a long and unexpected healing journey.

Over the past year, I’ve been battling chronic allergies and sinus issues. Surgery was recommended, but before it could happen, I needed to be medically cleared due to an abnormal EKG. That led to referrals, cardiology tests, and thankfully — clearance. I spent the holidays with my family and moved forward with the necessary CT scan for surgery planned in early 2025.

But life took an unexpected and frightening turn.

A few weeks later, my daughter found me in the middle of a seizure. I was rushed to the ER. Neurology was brought in, and extensive testing began. No answers. I’ve always considered myself healthy — I eat well, exercise, and stay active. Yet something was clearly wrong.

On June 11, I returned to the emergency room with severe headaches and elevated cranial pressure. By June 13, I was admitted for sinus surgery — but then told I would also need a craniotomy, meaning two back-to-back brain-related surgeries under full anesthesia. It was terrifying.

After consulting with my children and family, we made the decision to move forward. The surgeries were a success, and by day two I was walking. I refused pain meds and focused on healing. I was ready to go home on Juneteenth, which felt deeply symbolic — a day of personal freedom and new beginnings. But due to challenges with insurance authorizations for costly post-surgery medications, I had to stay another night.

Now, I’m finally home — but my journey is far from over.

Recovery will be long and expensive. I’m currently dealing with:

    •    Costly new medications

    •    Ongoing follow-ups and imaging

    •    Physical therapy for partial nerve damage

    •    Monitoring for possible complications

    •    Transportation, co-pays, and out-of-pocket expenses

Despite the challenges, I remain hopeful, grateful, and full of love. I even joke that I got a little “natural Botox” — I can now do The Rock’s eyebrow lift. Perspective is everything, and I choose to see the light.

How You Can Help

Any donation, no matter how small, will go directly toward my medical expenses, recovery needs, and ongoing care. If you’re unable to give financially, your prayers, love, light, and positive energy are just as welcome and deeply appreciated.

One thing I’ve learned in all of this is that healing is not just medical — it’s human. Whether I was sharing my story with a nurse or simply asking someone about theirs, those moments of connection became the most healing part of all.

From my heart to yours — thank you for listening, for caring, and for standing with me on this journey.

With gratitude,

Karlene