Hello everyone,

After much encouragement from friends and family, I decided to start this GoFundMe. It’s not easy to ask for help, but right now, I truly need a hand.

Getting injured at work nearly a year ago turned my life upside down. I’ve been trying to stay strong, focused on healing, and hopeful that things would get better, but it’s been a long road. Recovery has been slow and the financial side of this journey has been incredibly hard.. The benefits I receive from workers comp don’t come close to what I was earning before, yet my bills and everyday expenses have remained the same. With the current economic climate, I even sense an increase. To make things worse, there have been delays in payments and denials of my claim. It’s been a constant battle and its starting to take a toll on my mental well-being.

I’m not giving up—far from it. I’m fighting every day to heal and move forward. But right now, I could really use a hand to keep going. If you’re able to donate, even just a little, it would mean the world. And if you can’t donate, sharing this campaign is just as appreciated.

Thank you for reading, supporting, and reminding me I’m not in this alone.

With gratitude,

Andrea

Here’s an update on my ongoing path to recovery

Well, here I go again. As some of you know, in April 2024, I sustained a severe work-related injury while handling a 170-pound keg, leading to multiple ligament tears and a fractured tibial plateau. Despite undergoing trauma surgery, adhering to physical therapy, and returning to work part-time in September under strict guidelines from my surgeon, it soon became apparent my knee was not getting better; it was getting worse. I began having nerve pain, which became increasingly uncomfortable, at times unbearable. Then my knee was so unstable, it started giving out.

These persistent issues necessitated a second surgery on February 28, 2025, for reconstruction of my ACL, a medial and lateral meniscectomy, decompression of my peroneal, sural, tibial nerves, and soleal sling. Complications during this procedure led to an emergency fasciotomy because I was at risk for compartment syndrome which could have caused a host of other medical issues. Fortunately, it was caught early and addressed. The surgeons anticipate my recovery will take about six months before I return to work, and full recovery in 18 months or so. It is, however, not likely I will recover completely. To this, I say, 'I do not know the agony of defeat; I will continue to fight and not retreat.'

I am deeply grateful for your time, compassion, and support during this period of uncertainty.

Sisu is a Finnish word that can be translated roughly as 'strength of will,' 'determination,' or 'perseverance.' Never giving up, never giving in. It's considered an action-oriented mindset, a philosophy, and a way of life.

I share this with you because my mother and I got these matching tattoos, creating a permanent bond between us. My confidence, being unshakeable determination, and vibrant spirit are all testaments to the impact she has had on my life. She is my pillar of strength and ultimately defines Sisu❤️