Thank you for taking the time to read this: I am Brooke Dillenbeck, the daughter and health proxy of my mother, Stacey Hotaling, a strong and resilient woman who has been facing an incredibly challenging battle since October 17th. My mother's health took a sudden and serious turn, landing her in critical condition at Hamilton Hospital in Sherburne. Her condition was so severe that she had to be transferred to Albany Medical Center, located three agonizing hours away from our home.

Throughout this harrowing journey, I've stood by her side, doing everything within my power to support her. My mom has undergone not one, not two, but three critical surgeries in the past week. The reason for these surgeries is the presence of two massive ulcers that have been relentlessly bleeding in her stomach, even after medical intervention. Unfortunately, the medical team in the hospital missed the hole that was perforated by the ulcers, which then caused her to go into septic shock, from there she was rushed into emergency surgery and has been in between the operation room and ICU. This has led to extreme episodes of GI bleeding and vomiting blood, making her battle all the more challenging and heart-wrenching. At this time, in her current state, she is intubated, and in extremely critical condition from reoccurring extreme blood loss.

As her daughter, I am the sole anchor of support that she has during this trying time. The emotional and financial burden has been overwhelming. I've had to make the difficult decision to stay in hotels near Albany Medical Center every night to ensure I can be with her, not only hold her hand, and provide the love and encouragement she needs - But also remain close to the hospital to ensure that I can provide my mother with comfort and assistance. I have witnessed my mom in endless pain and distress from the countless procedures and complications that have made her recovery increasingly difficult. While I would prefer to spend these nights by her side, I have not been allowed to stay in her room with her overnight due to the complications at hand. This has forced me to pay for motels each night even at the cheapest cost just so I could remain close to my mom. Consequently, the cheapest motels have come around to about $89 per night which I was hoping would be manageable upon recovery, but her condition has kept worsening throughout her course of treatment.

This journey has been emotionally and financially exhausting. I've shouldered the responsibility alone, feeling the weight of the world on my shoulders. I have reached a point where I cannot manage this alone, and I'm humbly asking for help and support. Your generosity would not only ease the financial strain but also provide the emotional strength and encouragement that both my mom and I desperately need during these critical moments.

Together, we can help my mom Stacey in her fight for life. Your support will make a world of difference, and I am forever grateful for your kindness during this most challenging chapter of our lives. Thank you for being a part of our story and for helping me be there for my mom when she needs me the most.