From Tragedy to Recovery : Support for Medical & Life Crisis

Hi, my name is Connie Kelly.

Thank you for taking the time to read a bit about me and my story. I never imagined I’d be in this position again, asking for help—but life has taken some incredibly difficult turns over the past few years. I know this is a long read, but if you could take a moment it would mean the world to us.

I want to start by saying I’ve had other crowdfunding pages before, but I’m creating this new one not out of laziness or because I’m begging—my circumstances have simply changed. I hope sharing my ongoing struggles can be seen in a more understanding light

As many may know ... a couple years ago , I found out I was pregnant, and soon after, I learned my baby had Down syndrome and a serious heart condition. The first few months of my son Jack’s life were filled with doctor’s appointments and hospital stays. He was in heart failure and underwent open heart surgery at just 5 months old. We were later billed over $130,000 for that surgery alone, amongst all the other financial hardships this has begun to add up. Even after that, he continued to face multiple hospitalizations.

I stopped working late in my pregnancy due to high-risk complications and severe back issues that, to this day—almost five years later—remain unresolved. I’ve since become a full-time special needs mom. Jack now has multiple therapy sessions each week and regular medical appointments. I’m his primary caretaker, and my own physical health has made returning to work impossible.

In November 2024, I had emergency back surgery due to Cauda Equina Syndrome—a rare and serious condition that can cause permanent nerve damage if not treated immediately. Recovery from this is incredibly uncertain, and it’s known to recur easily. Sadly, the surgery didn’t improve my symptoms. Most days, I can barely walk and live with constant, excruciating pain. A car accident a few weeks ago (caused by another driver) further aggravated my condition.

This past year has been unimaginably hard. And then, in December, just as I was hoping things might finally start to improve, my little sister passed away unexpectedly. That loss sent me into the darkest place I’ve ever been in my life. Grieving her, while managing my own declining physical and mental health and caring for Jack, has been extremely difficult.

I never expected to be here—navigating life with grief and constant pain, out of work, and physically limited at this point in my life. I’ve always been independent and passionate about my career, but right now, I simply can’t do it alone.

Crowdfunding has helped us through tough times before, but this is the most challenging season we’ve faced. Any amount of support would mean the world and help us stay afloat while I work on healing and regaining some stability with full intentions to get back to work as soon as I possibly can.

I was just in the hospital again for the same issues with my back. 

Thank you so much for reading and for any kindness you’re able to extend. Anything at all will help right now❤️

Love, Connie & Jackson