Support Alyssa Gross's Recovery From Domestic Gun Violence

My name is Alyssa Gross. A year ago, at only 19, my life changed forever. I was shot 11 times by my stepfather in what was supposed to be the safety of my own home. I was flown to Baltimore Shock Trauma and placed into a medically induced coma. I underwent 6 surgeries, including a skin graft, a fasciotomy, extensive nerve repair, and a rod being placed in my shattered tibia. I also suffered 6 broken ribs, a collapsed lung, massive blood loss, and the loss of function in both of my hands. During the 6 weeks in Shock Trauma and a rehab facility, I slowly learned the basics of life all over again, including how to walk and even feed myself.

I have had additional hospitalizations due to complications, and I am expecting yet another surgery in the next year due to the extensive nerve damage in my right arm. I have extreme difficulty using that hand despite receiving ongoing physical therapy. I have already had several surgeries involving this arm due to the damage from the 3 separate bullets that hit it.

The financial impact has been extensive, unexpected, and frustrating. I was working 40+ hours a week, self-sustainable, and even just purchased my first car two months beforehand (which I lost due to financial hardship shortly after the incident). I have sought out resources like Victims Compensation, but that takes time (12-18 months), and the case against my stepfather is still ongoing, delaying my ability to seek restitution to help cover medical expenses.

It goes without saying that the mental and emotional toll is an additional and unwelcome burden. Nightmares, panic attacks, fear, and anxiety. The stress from the financial burden only exacerbates these. I'm hoping that if I can ease this one burden, even just slightly, that the toll on my well-being might be lessened. Donations from this campaign will be used to help achieve that goal. I'm incredibly thankful for all of the support, care, and compassion that I've received. It means more than I could ever properly explain. Thank you.