My grandma, Matilde, is 81 years old and has always been the heart of our family. In December, she had her first surgery for an infected abscess that left her with a deep wound under her armpit. We spent nine days in the hospital, and she had a wound vac placed. Home health was helping until insurance changes forced them to drop her, so I took over her wound care, taking her to clinics and changing her dressings myself when needed. We hoped she was healing, but after a fish skin graft was placed in February, her body rejected it. From then until April 15th, the wound worsened and continued to bleed. We went to the ER several times, but they said it was normal. She became anemic from the blood loss, and finally, on April 16th she had a second surgery to clean and address the wound. The tissue was so friable that the surgeon sent it for a biopsy, which came back as cancer. We spent another ten days in the hospital, and she has started chemo, but she needs another surgery and more treatment ahead.

Throughout all of this, I have been by her side. My grandparents live alone and are on a fixed income, so I moved in to help. I am currently on FMLA at work to handle all appointments, but my hours are running low and finances are getting tight. My mother and Aunt also help with getting her groceries, medications and taking her to appointments when able, but they too are struggling with being able to take time off work. We want to be able to continue caring for her the way she deserves and keep her comfortable through this battle. She means everything to us and we can't imagine life without her.

She would never ask for help herself, so I'm asking for her. If you are able to donate, share, or simply keep her in your prayers, it would mean more than words can express. Every contribution, no matter the size, will help us continue caring for her and allow our family to focus on what matters most: helping her fight this battle. Funds raised will help cover medical bills, doctor’s appointments, daily care, and any other treatment or needs she may have throughout this battle. Any support means the world to us, and we are so grateful for your kindness.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for helping us care for the woman who has always taken care of everyone else.