Show Up for Claire: 6 Months of Healing Needed

After four days of what she thought was a bad migraine, none of the usual medications and tricks were working. She recognized that her blood pressure was really high and the pain became unbearable.

The emergency department thought she might have meningitis, but she alerted them that her aunt had died from a a dissection in an artery that carries blood to the brain. Knowing this information, they ordered scans of her brain.

The scans revealed a sinus infection, not a big deal at all, but also that she had a carotid artery dissection. Thankfully she did not have a stroke, but was quickly admitted to prevent that and to do a series of more testing. She was started on blood thinners and had several specialized tests which determined it was a severe dissection.

Because of this she will need 6 months of recovery. It is imperative that she focuses on healing as she is at ongoing risk for stroke, and she is unable to return to work.

Claire has spent her entire life in service to others. She has worked as an RN for 17 years, and as a NP for five and was on the frontlines when COVID hit, working non-stop in NY, the epicenter of the pandemic. I have watched her continuously show up for others, sometimes at her own expense. It's time to show up for her.

Not being able to work is necessary, and also nearly impossible in a capitalist society. She deserves to focus solely on her recovery.

Mr. Rogers once said, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” Claire is the embodiment of that sentiment. She has spent her life helping others, but sometimes even the helpers need help themselves.

If you are able to support her on this healing journey—whether it’s with a donation, a kind word, or a shared prayer—please know that no contribution is too small. We are deeply grateful that Claire is still with us, and we are hopeful for her full recovery. Thank you for showing up for her, as she has always shown up for others.