Hi everyone,

We are creating this GoFundMe for our sister, Christelle Smith, someone so many people know and love. If you know her, you know exactly who she is - always with an open heart and an open hand, constantly giving of herself and never asking for anything in return.

Ironically, this journey began while she was doing just that. She was with a mission group in South Africa when she first noticed something wrong with her eye. She immediately sought help and what we learned was frightening - her retina had detached and she only had a few days to undergo surgery to attempt to save her sight.

She went through the surgery and later had a second procedure to remove the silicone oil that had been placed in her eye as part of the healing process. We were hopeful she was on the road to recovery.

Around Christmas, Christelle noticed her vision worsening again. After another emergency appointment, she received devastating news: her retina detached again, and to make matters worse, there is now also a macular hole in the eye. She is in need of a third operation in a continued effort to save her vision.

While this has been emotionally exhausting and overwhelming, there is hope. Her doctor is confident that this can be fixed, and we are holding onto that hope. Above all, we know that God is in control, no matter what.

The financial burden of the multiple emergency surgeries, specialist care, and recovery costs has been significant. All funds raised will go directly toward these medical expenses, surgery, and aftercare related to this procedure.

Any donation, no matter the amount, will make a meaningful difference. If you are unable to give, please consider sharing this page.

Thank you for your kindness, generosity, prayers, and support in this incredibly difficult time. We are deeply grateful!