Hi, my name is Sara (SaRah) and I’m asking for help during one of the most unexpected and difficult chapters of my life.

It all began on Monday the 14th, when I went to work feeling a little off. By the next day, my sore throat had turned severe — and I developed a splitting headache, which was unusual for me. My fiancé Tesha took me to the doctor, where I tested negative for COVID, flu, RSV, and strep. We thought maybe it was something minor. But we had no idea I was at the start of an infection that would change our lives.

That week, the pain worsened quickly. After multiple ER visits, I was finally admitted with a diagnosis of Otical Shingles (shingles of the face) and aseptic meningitis — both caused by Varicella-zoster virus (VZV).

My condition quickly escalated: I lost hearing in my left ear, the left side of my face became paralyzed, severe vertigo, nerve pain, and difficulty swallowing. I was placed on antiviral medication and monitored closely with imaging and bloodwork to prevent further complications.

I’m currently unable to work while I recover and go through weeks of therapy. I’m fundraising $10,000 to help cover:

• Medical and therapy costs

• Daily living expenses (rent, food, utilities)

• Transportation to appointments

Your support — whether through a donation or simply sharing — means more than you know. My goal is to return to work as a USPS City Carrier and continue pushing through recovery, one day at a time.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Sara