Hello, my name is Gracie, and I’m reaching out for support for my dad (Ismael), who has endured a lifetime of pain after a devastating injury as a child. At just 7 years old, he fell from a tree and was left hanging by his leg, causing a severe dislocation. Unfortunately, due to financial struggles and lack of access to medical care, he never received the proper treatment, and the injury has haunted him ever since.

Now, at 60 years old, my dad is in desperate need of a hip replacement. In all my 33 years, I’ve never seen him walk or run properly. He’s always tried his best to keep up with my sister and me, but he would soon need to sit and rest due to the constant pain. Over the years, both of his hip joints have deteriorated completely, and he has been living with extreme discomfort for far too long. Doctors have expressed their amazement that he’s been able to stand and walk at all in his condition.

A few days ago, my dad had the first of two hip replacements, but the cost of the surgery is overwhelming. The medical bill for just one hip replacement is around $9,000, and my mom has had to take 3 weeks off work to care for him, leading to a decrease in their household income.

I’m asking for help so that my dad can live the rest of his life free of pain and fully enjoy his time with his family—especially my daughter, his only grandchild. I want her to grow up with a granddad who can walk, play, and be there for her in the way he always wished he could be for me.

Any contribution, no matter how small, will make a world of difference for us. Thank you for taking the time to read my story, and for your support during this time. Your kindness means more than words can express.