My name is Dane. I'm fundraising on behalf of my dear friend Christine and her mother, Carolyn, who are in the Philippines. On June 25th, Carolyn was recently rushed to the hospital for what was thought to be a standard gallbladder surgery, but it revealed a life-threatening infection that has led to major complications, a lengthy ICU and 2-month hospital stay, a blood clot in her lungs, and multiple emergency readmissions.

For those who know Christine, you know her mom is her entire world. Carolyn is a widow, and Christine is the only immediate family she has left. Seeing them navigate this crisis has been heartbreaking, and we are starting this GoFundMe to rally the support they urgently need.

When Carolyn was rushed to the ER due to an excruciating stomach pain, doctors quickly found a large gallstone requiring immediate surgery. Unfortunately, surgeons discovered a severe internal infection and about one liter of pus in her stomach. The infection, damaging her small and large intestines, required a major surgery. Unfortunately, complications from pre-existing conditions like diabetes and a heart issue made Carolyn’s recovery even more challenging.

Setbacks and Hospital Bills

After a brief discharge, Carolyn was readmitted only days later for emergency internal bleeding. Her fight has been marked by one complication after another:

Their relatives have helped financially, but after almost 2 months in the hospital plus surgeries—the financial strain has been immense.

The first hospital bill alone totaled PHP 1 million (CAD 24,200), with over PHP559,000 (CAD 13,500) remaining after deductions. To manage these costs, Christine has already taken out two separate bank loans while also paying for her mom’s medicines, colostomy supplies, and the salary for a helper who provides essential care. As of September 1st, Carolyn is out of the the hospital but still has unpaid hospital bills, under careful observation, and is due for another major surgery to reconnect her intestines.

How You Can Help

Our friend Christine’s wish is to see her mom Carolyn recover. Carolyn is a choir member who sings at her local church every Sunday, and we’d love for her to continue doing what she loves. We want to help lift this financial burden so Christine can also focus completely on her mom’s healing.

Your donation will be used on:

As the organizer in Canada, I will be personally withdrawing and sending all donations directly to Christine in the Philippines via EFT.

Your kindness and generosity will give them the strength and hope they need to get through this incredibly difficult time. Thank you for your support.