My sister, Maria went into Cleveland Clinic Hospital in Weston at the beginning of January for a fairly simple surgery to repair a stomach fistula. Instead of being discharged 3 days later, there were complications and she spent the rest of the month on a respirator and in a coma fighting for her life. There were days when it didn't look like she would make it, but she fought hard. She is getting better slowly but is still in ICU. She will probably remain there for a few more weeks and then be released to a rehabilitation facility to start her physical therapy to get her back on her feet. As you can imagine, this has been devastating to our family. Maria has always been so full of energy and life and it's so hard to see her in her present condition. We are trying to reassure her that everything thing is being taken care of on the outside so that she can concentrate her energy only on gaining her health back. We don't know if or when she will be able to work again so we are trying to help cover her bills during this time. Most of her medical expenses are covered by insurance but even the co payments are starting to pile up. Her savings have been exhausted since last year she also underwent surgery and hospitalization with heart issues. Many people have asked how they can help so we are opening this up in hopes that when Maria returns home she will not have the additional financial burden to worry her. She is not able to receive flowers at this time but cards are always welcomed. They can be sent to 2483 Carambola Road, West Palm Beach, FL. 33406. On behalf of all of our family, thank you so much for any donation that you are willing to make!

*Update 2/19/17
Maria is now of of ICU but still not well enough to start physical therapy.  Please keep her in your prayers for continued healing.