If a picture is worth a thousand words, the photo above captures the heart and soul of my sister. Sarah is a caretaker, the person who has always been there to help everyone and anyone, never asking for anything in return. She devoted her life to helping those that couldn't help themselves and gave so much to so many...right up to the moment that her entire life was turned upside down and she could no longer help herself.

On September 18th Sarah went to the ER with a severe headache. Hours went by until we learned that she had suffered a stroke. She was finally transferred to a different hospital where they could perform the surgery necessary to remove blood clots in the arteries going to her brain. The next morning, she had to have a second surgery where they removed a section of her skull and brain tissue killed by the stroke to protect the undamaged portions of her brain from swelling. After nearly three weeks on life support, she had a tracheostomy and was able to be weened from the ventilator and transferred to yet another hospital for the specialized care she now requires. Sarah has begun physical and occupational therapy as well as speech therapy with the hope that one day she can come home. Her life has been forever changed; to say she has been through a lot is an understatement.

Sarah is a fighter and she is in there fighting. Things as simple as squeezing your hand, wiggling her toes and making facial expressions are now monumental milestones. Sarah would never ask anyone for help but she has a tremendous journey ahead of her so I am asking for her. She does not have the finances necessary to provide her with the care she deserves. Between insurance premiums and expenses to accommodate a new way of life, the costs will be astronomical. If you feel so inclined to donate and give to someone who has spent their entire life giving to others, our family is beyond thankful. We truly appreciate any support that can be provided.