I never imagined I would be writing this. I’ve always been someone who works hard and pushes through challenges. I’ve spent my life taking care of others through food for over 20 years i’ve been the executive chef for Volare Restaurant.

Not long ago, my life changed in an instant.

On October 18, 2025, I suffered not one, but two strokes. What started as dizziness and numbness quickly became a medical emergency. I was rushed to Northwestern Hospital, where doctors confirmed I had experienced a stroke. Before I could fully process what was happening, I suffered a second one. The days that followed were filled with fear, uncertainty, and countless medical tests. Strokes don’t just affect you in the moment; they impact your body, your independence, and your future. Since then, I’ve been dealing with blindness in my right eye, partial paralysis on my left side, speech difficulties, and memory issues along with fatigue. Recovery is not quick or easy. It requires ongoing medical care, therapy, medication, and time away from work. Even though I have insurance, I still have medical bills, rehabilitation and therapy costs, prescription expenses, along with everyday living expenses. These expenses have been physically and emotionally overwhelming. One moment I was living my normal life, and the next I was fighting to regain basic abilities many of us take for granted. I am determined to recover and rebuild my strength with continued therapy and support. I hope to regain as much independence as possible, but I cannot do this alone. If you’re able to donate or share this page, it would mean more to me than I can express. Your support will help ease the financial stress so I can focus fully on healing. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for being part of my recovery journey.