On February 27, 2024, my beloved Aunty Mina underwent major knee surgery at UCLA to correct a severe issue caused by Polio, which had left her leg crooked for years. The chief orthopedic surgeon at UCLA performed the surgery, initially deemed a success. However, complications soon arose. What started as a hopeful procedure quickly turned into an agonizing journey, requiring a second skin graft and extended immobilization to allow the grafts to heal.

Despite these efforts, things took a heartbreaking turn. While recovering at a rehabilitation center, Aunty Mina developed a severe MRSA infection. This infection, undetected for too long, rapidly worsened. By May 28, 2024, despite all medical efforts, Mina’s right leg had to be amputated, devastating her and our family.

Over the next few months, she endured eight surgeries—four on her leg, including the amputation, and four on her left arm, which also became infected with MRSA. She has fought these infections with relentless courage, undergoing multiple open drain procedures and remaining on antibiotics for months. Her battle has taken her in and out of hospitals and rehabilitation centers, each stay marked by further complications, surgeries, and yet more resilience. She is still fighting MRSA in her left arm, which remains swollen and painful despite months of treatment.

Through all of this, Aunty Mina has shown incredible strength, maintaining hope in the face of overwhelming challenges. Medicare has helped cover much of her medical care, but many of the necessary expenses—like handicap modifications for her home, additional in-home nursing care, wheelchairs, and intensive rehabilitation—are not covered. These costs are essential for her to regain some independence and adjust to her new reality after the amputation.

We are asking for your support to help cover these additional expenses. The funds raised will go toward:

• Reconstructing her home to make it accessible to her new needs (entryway ramp, widening doorways to accommodate for wheelchair access, remodeling bathroom for handicap accessibility)

• Ongoing in-home nursing care and assistance

• Wheelchairs and mobility aids

• Physical therapy and rehabilitation services that are critical to her recovery

Aunty Mina has always been the heart of our family, bringing love, laughter, and strength to everyone she meets. Now, in her greatest time of need, we are coming together to support her as she fights for her health and independence. Your donations, no matter the amount, will make a world of difference to her. Even if you cannot donate, sharing her story will help us reach others who may be able to contribute.

We are incredibly grateful for your kindness, generosity, and support during this incredibly difficult time. Thank you for being part of Aunty Mina’s journey toward healing.