Dear friends, family, and kind-hearted strangers,

If you know Jalesa, you know she’s the kind of person who never hesitates to help others— She’s always there when someone needs her, but now, she’s the one who needs us.

Since March 28th, Jalesa has been in the hospital battling severe stomach pains that led to a diagnosis of Superior Mesenteric Artery (SMA) Syndrome, a rare and potentially life-threatening condition. SMA Syndrome occurs when the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine) becomes compressed between the abdominal aorta and the superior mesenteric artery, causing severe digestive issues, bowel obstruction, and intense pain. Despite undergoing surgery, Jalesa’s pain has not subsided, and she remains in the hospital with no estimated time to go home.

Jalesa is not just my best friend—she is the kind of person who gives without hesitation. Over the past ten years, she has shown up for me in ways big and small, from driving across town to pick me up when I needed a ride to visiting me every single week throughout all three of my pregnancies. She has supported me through every emergency and disaster—including hurricanes—and she always puts the needs of her family before her own, using every penny she has to ensure they are cared for.

Beyond her kindness, Jalesa is dedicated and hardworking in everything she does. She teaches the young and elderly, supports her church, and brings light into every space she enters. Now, she needs our help, and though she is too prideful to ask for it herself, I refuse to let her go through this alone.

As a fitness consultant with HISD, a personal trainer at the Harris County Senior Center, and the many other jobs she dedicates herself to, Jalesa doesn’t receive sick pay or time off. Every day she cannot work, she is losing income—income she needs to cover medical expenses and daily necessities. Every donation, no matter how small, will help ease the financial burden so she can focus on healing rather than worrying about how to make ends meet.

Let’s unite to support Jalesa, as she has always supported others. If you cannot donate, simply sharing this fundraiser would mean the world.

Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and prayers.