Hello friends, family, and loved ones across the interwebs,

We’re reaching out on behalf of someone incredibly special to us, our beautiful soul Charlotte Smith. Her year has been one that no one could have prepared for, and after months of fighting, she now needs your help.

Earlier this year, a serious car accident abruptly changed everything for Charlotte. What started as a concussion quickly spiraled into something much more serious. Just over a week later, while recovering from the accident, she suffered a seizure and was rushed to the hospital. That moment set off a series of events that would lead to the discovery of a brain tumor that later would be known as the infamous Steve.

After multiple appointments, scans, and referrals, it came to light that Steve had most likely been causing issues for years, including migraines with aura, vision disturbances, balance problems, and what now are believed to be mini seizures. Steve had grown to a point where he needed to be removed, and quickly.

As if Steve wasn't enough to deal with, all of this was happening while she was already navigating the emotional and financial stress of being laid off from her job at the end of last year. Charlotte has been fighting this battle with quiet strength and her sense of humor that has been a light even in the darkest moments.

One week ago, on July 23rd, Charlotte said goodbye to Steve for good with the help of her amazing team at Northwestern Hospital. As you can imagine, the recovery has been incredibly tough, testing her physically, emotionally, and financially. She’s doing her absolute best to heal and stay strong, but the weight of medical bills, follow-up care, and trying to regain stability without income takes its toll.

That is why we're here, and where you come in. We are here to ask for support in any way you can give it. Whether it’s a donation, a share, or a message of encouragement, it all makes a difference. Every little bit helps lighten her load so she can focus on what matters most: healing.

She has a follow-up appointment on July 31 to go over the pathology results and the next steps in her recovery. We’ll be sharing updates here to keep everyone informed and connected along the way. She plans to post about her journey in hopes to help someone that is going through something similar hopefully not feel alone.

Thank you for reading, thank you for caring, and thank you for being part of her village.

With love and gratitude,

Charlotte’s Chicago Chosen Family & Loving Indiana Family