
Help Keith Restore His Vision and Livelihood
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Hello, my name is Kristi, and I’m reaching out with love and hope to ask for your support for my brother, Keith. In October 2024, his world was turned upside down when he was diagnosed with a 60% detached retina, a condition that required urgent and complex surgery. The procedure involved placing a gas bubble in his retinal cavity to help the retina reattach — a surgery with a promising 95% success rate. Despite following every step of his recovery diligently, Keith found himself among the unlucky 5% for whom the procedure failed.
What followed has been a whirlwind of challenges. Keith’s vision began deteriorating again, accompanied by severe pain. Scar tissue had formed, pulling the retina away and allowing fluid to seep in. Now, he faces a second surgery where doctors will replace the gas bubble with oil and remove the scar tissue to give his retina a better chance of staying attached. After months of recovery, he will likely need a third surgery to remove the oil and address a cataract that has begun to form.
As you can imagine, this journey has not only been physically and emotionally taxing but also financially devastating. Keith is self- employed and has worked hard his whole life as a skilled flooring professional, specializing in tile installation. His work requires precision and clear vision — things that are currently out of reach. He hasn’t been able to work since October 2024, with no certainty about when he will be able to return.
Each surgery costs approximately $5,000 out of pocket, even after insurance. With mounting expenses and no income, Keith and his wife are struggling to keep their heads above water now that they have depleted all their savings. That’s why I’m humbly asking for your help. Any contribution, big or small, will go directly toward Keith’s medical expenses and help ease the burden during this difficult time. Keith’s 2nd surgery is scheduled for Thursday, February 13th. An additional 5,000.00 (same as the 1st surgery) will have to be paid or charged on a credit card at the time of service.
If you can’t donate, please consider sharing this campaign and keeping Keith in your thoughts and prayers. We are so grateful for your compassion and generosity.
Please note:
1. You can choose to donate anonymously.
2. If you wish to donate but NOT "tip" GoFundMe, please remove the default % tip to allow the maximum donation to go directly to Keith's medical expenses.
Thank you for being part of Keith’s journey toward healing and hope.
With gratitude,
Kristi Vena-Edmonds
Organizer and beneficiary
Kristi Vena
Organizer
Winter Garden, FL
Keith Vena
Beneficiary