On January 20, 2025, a dear family friend, Rhonda Kelly, was rushed to the hospital. She was initially transported to St. Agnes, the closest hospital to her. While in the emergency room, the medical team discovered Rhonda suffered a significant stroke, and her brain was swelling, which caused multiple strokes after the initial one. Rhonda was immediately intubated and transferred to the University of Maryland to undergo a craniectomy (a procedure to remove pieces of the skull) to relieve the increased pressure on her brain. Following her surgery, Rhonda was in the ICU where she suffered yet another stroke. Though we do not know the full extent of her deficits or what her recovery time will be, we know the stroke had a severe impact on the left side of her body. She is unable to move parts of her left side, and she cannot turn her head to the left side. She is unable to eat or drink by mouth as she struggles with staying alert long enough for a swallow test, due to stroke-induced delirium. The physician recommends placing a feeding tube until she is able to stay awake and alert for longer periods of time.

Because Rhonda needs total care, her daughter Amber has been living at the hospital with her mother. She has been by Rhonda's side for the past three weeks, making medical decisions, helping care for her, working with her to strengthen her brain and motor skills, while also providing her mom security and comfort.

Anyone who knows Rhonda knows that life hasn't been easy for her since she was a young girl, but she overcomes, she perseveres. She is the most loving, caring, uplifting, God-fearing woman we know! She will do and has done so much for the people in her life. She will make sure her loved ones have everything they need or want, even if that means she goes without. She truly is a remarkable woman.

With an unanticipated extended hospital stay, and rigorous rehab down the road, Rhonda's medical bills are constantly multiplying. Though the ones closest to her are helping in ways that we can, unfortunately, this is much bigger for us to handle alone. We would like to eliminate as much stress as possible for Rhonda, which allows her to focus on her health and the obstacles that she is facing.

We are asking for donations. No amount is too small. All proceeds will go towards Rhonda's care and expenses.

Please share. Please pray for Rhonda's healing and recovery. Pray for her loved ones, as this is a challenging time for us.

Thank you!