In early April, Debbie traveled to New Jersey to care for her dying mother in hospice. After returning home to Florida on June 13th, she simply wanted to feel normal again — and got on the tractor to mow the lawn.

But what started as a routine task turned into a devastating medical crisis.

While mowing, debris was kicked up into her eye. At first, it seemed minor. But within days, the irritation worsened. Despite multiple visits to doctors and warnings from her oncologist (Debbie is immune-compromised due to chronic lymphocytic leukemia), a therapeutic contact lens was applied against medical advice.

That decision proved catastrophic.

Debbie developed a rare, aggressive fungal infection from the soil, which rapidly spread into the inner eye. She endured weeks of escalating pain, emergency care, and 24/7 medication regimens — only to be told that the eye could not be saved. On July 4th, she underwent a corneal transplant, and shortly after, it was confirmed that complete removal of her eye was the only way to stop the infection.

Debbie is now facing:

Permanent vision loss and disfigurement

A long recovery while off leukemia medications

Major out-of-pocket costs for medications and treatments — many not covered by insurance, costing $150–$350 per bottle and expiring in days

Frequent follow-up visits 2+ hours away from home

This nightmare has taken a huge emotional and financial toll. We’re asking for your help to ease the burden and support Debbie through this overwhelming journey.

Your donation will go toward:

Ongoing medications and travel for care

Surgical expenses

Future prosthetic and recovery needs

Helping Debbie and her family regain some stability during an already heartbreaking time

Please consider contributing — any amount helps, and sharing this fundraiser can make a real difference.

Thank you for your love, support, and prayers