In early December, my cousin Heather went to the doctor for what seemed like a routine foot wound. She was prescribed antibiotics and referred to wound care, but before that appointment could happen, the infection worsened and she was admitted to the hospital in mid-December. As a result, doctors had to amputate her right leg below the knee. Heather then spent several weeks in the hospital and in rehabilitation, working daily on recovery and learning how to adapt. She was finally able to return home yesterday, which marked a major milestone in her journey.

During rehab, Heather learned to walk with a walker, navigate a few steps, and move independently again, all while continuing to adapt to major physical changes. She has worked extremely hard and has remained in good spirits through most of this process, staying focused and positive even on difficult days. Now that she is home, the next phase of recovery begins. Heather works assisting elderly individuals in a care setting, a job that requires physical strength, mobility, and endurance. To continue moving forward, she will need ongoing medical care and support, including a prosthetic leg, physical therapy, mobility equipment such as a wheelchair that is practical and comfortable for daily life and work, and home modifications to improve accessibility and safety.

This fundraiser is meant to help with the many upcoming expenses that come with adjusting to life after a major medical event. Any support—whether through donating or sharing—helps Heather focus on healing and adapting without the added stress of managing these costs alone.

Heather didn’t ask for this, but she’s facing it head-on—and helping her now means helping her build a stable, independent future.