Hi, I’m Jorge, the best friend and chosen brother of Maria Digaetano. On Monday morning, Maria was awoken by excruciating pain in her stomach, so I drove her to the ER at New York Presbyterian Columbia Hospital in Washington Heights. Maria was diagnosed with a life-threatening obstruction that required immediate surgery and a blood transfusion. The situation was so severe that her surgery lasted over six hours, and she now faces a long path to recovery.

Maria moved to NYC last year after facing challenges in New Jersey due to her disability and her inability to drive. Since then, she has gained access to more services and has worked hard to be more independent and self-sufficient.

I deeply admire her hard work and resilience. Despite the difficult hand she has been dealt, she continues to move forward while being an amazing, caring, and loving friend—she is truly like a sister to me. She has shown me loyalty, respect, and kindness time and again. She took care of Daga when I had to drive tours, expecting nothing in return, and supported me during my mourning after Daga, which those who know me understand meant everything to me.

Unfortunately, I’m not in a position to cover her needs, so I created this fundraiser. I hope we can help her get back on her feet and recover from this setback. Thank you all for your support! If you are unable to donate, please share this campaign! Any help is greatly appreciated.