She Cared for Everyone — Now She Needs Us

Hi, my name is Samantha Valdes, and I’m organizing this fundraiser on behalf of my beloved Madrina — my aunt and godmother, Sumi.

Yesterday, she was the victim of a devastating dog attack that left her with severe injuries to multiple limbs. She was airlifted to Jackson Memorial Hospital and immediately rushed into emergency surgery. She lost a significant amount of blood and required four blood transfusions on the spot to stabilize her.

Right now, we're facing an uncertain road ahead. The extent of her injuries is still unfolding, and we know the road to recovery will be long, complex, and challenging. Doctors are monitoring how her body responds to the trauma, and there will likely be further revision surgeries needed. It's a heartbreaking and terrifying time for the Valdes and Iliteras family.

My Madrina is truly the heart of our family — kind, selfless, and always putting others first. She is not only a caregiver to several of our loved ones, but she’s also the glue that holds us all together. Now, in this moment of unimaginable crisis, she needs us.

We never expected to be in a situation like this — to see her story in the news articles or reporters outside the hospital. But here we are, trying to navigate something no family should have to go through.

This GoFundMe is to support her recovery — medically, emotionally, and practically. The road ahead will be long, and this support is to help cover medical costs, rehabilitation, and to help fill the gap left in the lives of those she cared for daily.

We know it takes a village, and we don’t want her to face this alone.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for any support you can give — whether it's through donations or prayers.