My mom, Monica, has been a teacher since 1998. She’s spent her life taking care of others not just through her work, but at home as well. For years, she has been the primary caregiver for her mom, who is now 99 and living with dementia. About 20 years ago, my grandmother lost her sight in one eye after a failed eye surgery. Over time, things got worse, and she eventually became completely blind due to cataracts and glaucoma. Watching that happen up close has stayed with my mom. She knows how precious sight is and how hard life can become without it.

Recently, my mom was diagnosed with a retinal detachment, along with a hemorrhage in the vitreous that needs to be removed. Without urgent surgery to address both, she could lose her vision. After everything she’s seen her own mother go through, this has been incredibly frightening for her and for all of us. Our family and close friends are doing everything we can to help, but it’s just not enough. This has been an overwhelming time for her. Between the fear of losing her vision and the stress of figuring out how to pay for the surgery, it’s been a lot to carry.

My mom isn’t someone who asks for help, she’s always been the one others rely on. She puts her faith in God and trusts that things will work out. We’re reaching out in hopes of helping her get this surgery, and we truly appreciate any donation.