Hi everyone,

My name is Kayla, and I’m creating this fundraiser for my parents during the hardest moment our family has ever faced.

My dad is currently in the hospital fighting for his life. This is his 4th open heart surgery after years of serious heart complications. Right now he has a tear in his aorta and a severe infection in his heart valve. Doctors have told us this is critical, and his chances of surviving surgery are very low. He is going into emergency surgery tomorrow, and we are absolutely terrified.

It’s hard to put into words how quickly everything has changed.

Just six weeks ago, we were sitting in that same hospital and he told me he didn’t think he would ever make it to a Blue Jays game. I told him we would make it happen. Four weeks ago, we did. We were there together, and he cried that day because he was so overwhelmed with happiness and gratitude. It was one of the best days we’ve had as a family.

Now we are back in the hospital again — but this time we are praying for his survival.

If he survives this surgery, he will face a long and painful recovery, including intensive care, help with breathing, and a long road ahead that none of us are prepared for. We are trying to stay strong, but our world has been completely turned upside down.

My dad is the most selfless person I know. He spent many years as a volunteer firefighter, always showing up for others in his community no matter what. He is the kind of man who would give everything he has to help someone in need.

To me, he is my rock. My protector. The person I have always turned to for safety, love, and strength.

My mom is also currently unable to work as she is still recovering from a broken femur. With both of my parents facing these challenges at once, they are under an overwhelming amount of emotional and financial stress.

Funds raised will help ease the financial burden on my parents during this time, so they can focus fully on my dad’s recovery without the added stress of financial pressure.

We are so grateful for any support — whether it’s a donation, a share, or simply keeping our family in your thoughts and prayers. It truly means more than we can express.

Thank you for taking the time to read our story and for standing with our family during this incredibly difficult time.

Update on my dad ❤️ Against all odds, he made it through surgery—something we are beyond grateful for. His heart is functioning well, which is a huge step forward. This morning, doctors noticed some neurological changes, so they’re sending him for a CT scan before closing his chest. Right now we’re waiting and hoping for the best. We’re still taking everything moment by moment, but the support, prayers, and shares have meant more than we can ever express. This fundraiser is helping take some stress off my mom with bills and giving my dad peace of mind while he fights through this. Thank you for standing with us ❤️