On Friday, November 21, 2025, my mom, Shelley, suffered a severe stroke that caused paralysis to the right side of her body, impaired her speech, and affected her ability to swallow. She spent 39 days in Mercy Hospital, where doctors were uncertain about her outcome. My mom is a fighter—she has already battled cancer for many years, and her strength and determination continue to inspire everyone around her as she faces this new challenge.

Recently, my mom has made some progress—her feeding tube has been removed, and she is now able to eat and drink soft foods on her own. Her speech is slowly improving, and she can communicate with words and short sentences. However, her right side remains paralyzed, and she faces a long road of daily rehabilitation to regain her abilities. On December 26, 2025, she was moved to a rehabilitation center for intensive speech and physical therapy, where she will stay for the next two weeks before being released to go home.

Unfortunately, my mom cannot return to her own home until it is made handicapped accessible. Due to her paralysis, numerous medical modifications are needed for her safety and comfort, with the main concern being a specialized stairlift for her unique stairway layout. These modifications are costly, and all donations will go directly toward the stairlift and other essential medical devices to help bring my mom back home. My family and I are deeply grateful for any support and love you show my mom during this difficult time.

Thank you, Alyssa Aquilante