Hi! Most of you know me… Belinda. I sit here just lost. Yesterday (8/12) I went to the hospital for two tests as we discovered a month ago I had severe mitral regurgitation. I had an echo scope put down my throat and a heart cath done. Now I honestly wasn’t expecting my doctor to even talk to me, but as I was in the procedure room, he broke the news… not only do I need a valve replacement, I also need triple bypass surgery!

This has all come as such a surprise (not a good one at that) and so sudden it has left me scrambling. He says I should have the surgery in 1-2 months. At first, I wanted to postpone this till after February 2026 to make the necessary adjustments to my insurance and FSA, try and make a strategic plan, but at this point, waiting isn’t an option anymore. I’ve been relatively healthy my whole life. I’m like the energizer bunny… I just keep going!

Discussing my options with my employer of 16 years (which they have just been amazing and so supportive) I do get short-term disability; however, that is only 60% of my income. My PT job well it’s just gonna have to go on hold for now! I keep telling myself… it could be so much worse. And we caught it in time to do something about it!

I honestly was hesitant to even do a GoFundMe, as it’s really hard for me to ask when I need help. I’ve always been very independent and strong… guess that’s what makes me fear all of this so much. A friend at work encouraged me to try. She said you are gonna need some help to pay for medical out-of-pocket and loss of wages. So here we are…

I know times are tough for many people out there!! I so get it!!! Even passing this along would greatly help.

I will keep this site updated with my progress. Right now, all I know is I’m with one of the best open heart/heart transplant surgeons that came from Tampa General, and I will be seeing him on 8/26. I’m sure I will know more then.

Thank you in advance and please keep me in your prayers!