My Aunt Dionetta Marie Hudzinski, once a devoted nun and later a compassionate nurse, dedicated her life to helping others. As a clown, she brought joy and laughter to countless people. At 79, this retired nurse was fulfilling a lifelong dream—a trip to Rome to experience Easter at the Vatican.

Tragically, her dream turned into a nightmare. While waiting for her final flight to Rome from Turkey, Dionetta fell at the airport and broke her hip. She is now hospitalized in Istanbul, awaiting surgery. Alone, without family or friends nearby, and facing a language barrier, she is relying on interpreters for every step of her care.

Her medical insurance does not cover treatment abroad. The estimated cost for surgery alone is $29,000, with additional expenses expected for her recovery and travel home.

I and the entire family are asking for your help to ensure Dionetta receives the care she desperately needs. Any donation, no matter how small, will go directly to her surgery, hospital, transportation back to the US, recovery expenses, as well as support services , clothing and items she may need both in Istanbul and when she arrives home. Be assured, that I have set up a special account with her name on it, so that I can promptly pay for expenses.

Let’s come together to support someone who has spent her life caring for others—help Dionetta heal and get home safely.