Our family’s world changed in an instant.

My wife, Leslie Caoili, suffered a sudden and life-threatening Type A aortic dissection — a catastrophic tear in the main artery coming from her heart. She was rushed into emergency open-heart surgery where doctors performed a complex repair requiring cardiopulmonary bypass and extensive reconstruction of her aorta.

What was supposed to be a life-saving surgery has turned into the hardest battle of her life.

Since the operation, she has remained in the ICU fighting for survival. She is currently dependent on a ventilator, dialysis, and ECMO life support while her doctors work around the clock to give her every possible chance at recovery. She has also suffered severe circulation complications affecting her hands and feet due to the immense strain her body has endured.

Watching someone you love fight this hard is something no family can ever truly prepare for.

Leslie is more than a patient in a hospital bed. She is a loving wife, devoted mother, daughter, sister, and friend who has touched so many people with her kindness, strength, and love. She has always been the person others could depend on, and now we are asking for help on her behalf during the most difficult time our family has ever faced.

As we remain by her side every day, the financial burden continues to grow rapidly. Between missed work, travel expenses, hospital-related costs, meals, parking, childcare, and the uncertainty of a long recovery ahead, we are struggling to keep up while focusing on what matters most — being there for her.

We know times are hard for many people, and we never imagined needing to ask for this kind of support. But today, we are humbly asking for help for our family and for Leslie as she continues this fight.

Any donation — no matter the amount — will go directly toward:

• Medical and recovery-related expenses

• Travel and lodging during her ICU stay

• Household and family expenses during this crisis

• Long-term rehabilitation and care needs

If you are unable to donate, we completely understand. Please consider sharing this fundraiser and keeping Leslie in your prayers and thoughts. Every share, message, and prayer means more to us than words can express.

Thank you for standing with our family during this unimaginable time.

We will continue posting updates as we are able.

With gratitude,

Amery Lee Caoili