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Ashlee Marie Garbutt, a vibrant 31-year-old mother of four from the tight-knit community of Monkey River Village in Toledo District, Belize, needs your help. After giving birth to her beautiful baby girl, Anaya, in March 2024, Ashlee experienced breathing difficulties at the Southern Regional Hospital. What should have been one of the happiest times of her life turned into a nightmare when doctors diagnosed her with a mediastinal tumor.
Understanding the Challenge: Mediastinal Tumor
Mediastinal tumors are rare and challenging to treat. The 5-year overall survival rate ranges from 30% to 45%, and there is a significant risk associated with surgery. However, Ashlee's tumor, though not cancerous, requires immediate complete resection via sternotomy to prevent further complications. This procedure is not commonly performed in Belize, necessitating treatment in Guatemala or Mexico.
Our Urgent Need
The cost of Ashlee's life-saving surgery is $20,0000 US dollars. While her family is working tirelessly, organizing small food sales and community fundraisers, they cannot raise the necessary funds alone. Time is of the essence, and Ashlee urgently needs your support to cover the medical expenses.
Meet Ashlee: A Pillar of Our Community
Ashlee is more than just a patient; she is a beloved member of her community. If you knew Mr. Sonny and Ms. Kezi from the small, quaint fishing village of Monkey River, you would know that Ashlee is their 6th child, a testament to their enduring legacy. Despite the village's struggles with erosion, the Garbutt family remains a cornerstone of the community.
At 31, Ashlee is a warm-hearted, supportive spouse and a nurturing mother to four wonderful children:
- Avery (11 years old), who will be heading to high school next year,
- Aryah (4 years old), the tomboy and chatterbox of the family,
- Victor Jr. (2 years old), who is full of energy and spirit,
- Anaya (3 months old), the latest addition to their loving household.
Ashlee grew up in Monkey River, attended school there, and embraced the opportunity to be formally educated. She is a talented baker, known for making celebration cakes for the community. Cooking is in her blood, passed down from her mom and grandmothers.
How You Can Help
We are reaching out to you, our extended community, friends, and kind-hearted strangers, to help us raise the $20,000 (USD) needed for Ashlee’s surgery. Your support, no matter the size, can make a significant difference in her life and the lives of her children.
Please join us in supporting Ashlee Marie Garbutt in her fight for a healthier future. Together, we can make this surgery possible and give Ashlee the chance to watch her children grow up.
Thank you for your generosity and compassion.