Hello, my name is Martina. I am originally from Santiago, Chile.

I have been living in Australia for the past seven years.

In mid-July, my mum (Isabel, 67) suffered a severe stroke and was taken to hospital. I flew immediately back to Chile to be with her, my dad, and my siblings.

She has now suffered seven strokes throughout her life.

The most recent stroke (on July 18, 2025) was classified by doctors as malignant, and for the first time, it has left her with serious consequences.

Loss of mobility on her entire right side, severe aphasia (difficulty speaking and understanding) and dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)

She has always been an active, joyful and independent woman, which is why it hurts so much to see her in this situation.

She is currently hospitalised at Clinica del Profesor in Santiago, where she spent 11 days in the ICU before being transferred to the medical-surgical unit, where she remains today.

To care for her, we have had to hire extra support, since she cannot communicate and requires 24/7 care.

Our family and friends have been by our side and helping in every way we can. We want to give her the best chance to regain her quality of life.

On top of the support costs, we are facing future expenses for her rehabilitation (physiotherapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy), plus home modifications that will be necessary to make my parents’ house accessible for her mobility needs.

My parents are both retired, and as a family we have done everything possible to cover these costs, but we need help to ensure that she can access the best treatment and rehabilitation available.

Any contribution, no matter how small, will help us move forward on this road to recovery. We are deeply grateful for your support and solidarity during this difficult time.

With gratitude.

Martina Morgado