Help Cheryl Recover After a Brutal Attack in Her Own Home

On a quiet Tuesday evening, Cheryl’s life changed forever. What began as a normal day — sharing a kind gesture of pizza with her rental guest — turned into a horrifying act of violence.

Later that night, without warning, Cheryl was viciously attacked in her own kitchen by Michael, a tenant she had generously offered a room to for the past two months. He brutally beat her, then stabbed her eight times in the head and back with her own kitchen knife. She was found hours later by police after finding Michael with blood all over him.

Her beloved dog, Cali, tried to protect her and was stabbed twice in the process. Cali was rushed to the emergency vet, where life-saving surgery cost $1,500 — a bill Cheryl paid while fighting for her own life.

Cheryl was found in a pool of blood and rushed, unconscious, to Akron Trauma Center. For days, she remained confused, unable to recall the year or even the month. She suffered a severe concussion, countless bruises, and injuries so intense that she cannot walk without assistance. Alarms are now attached to her hospital bed and chair to prevent her from falling. Her left arm is bandaged and unusable, likely due to defending herself during the attack. Even eating has become difficult due to injuries in her mouth and tongue.

Michael is now in jail and facing charges, but Cheryl is left to rebuild — physically, emotionally, and financially.

This fundraiser is to help Cheryl in three crucial ways:

1. Medical Recovery – She faces ongoing medical care, physical therapy, and trauma support.

2. Veterinary Expenses – Cali’s emergency surgery and recovery costs remain a burden.

3. Housing Support – The room Cheryl was renting to students was her primary source of income. After the attack, tenants understandably left, and future income is uncertain.

This was not just a crime — it was a betrayal of trust and a devastating act of violence. Cheryl has a long road ahead, and she cannot walk it alone.

Please, if you can, donate to help her regain stability and healing. Every contribution, big or small, makes a real difference. And if you’re unable to give right now, sharing this campaign is just as meaningful.

Let’s show Cheryl that love and community are stronger than violence. Thank you for standing with her in this time of unimaginable pain.