Hello everyone,

Our family is currently facing an incredibly difficult time due to an unforeseen medical emergency involving my mom, Darlene, that nearly cost her life.

On Tuesday, September 23rd, my mom went to the ER after experiencing severe difficulty breathing. As the night progressed and her condition worsened, she was placed on a ventilator and life-flighted to Allegheny General Hospital (AGH), a facility better equipped to handle her complex and critical case.

In the early hours of September 24th, around 1:00 AM, she was placed on ECMO — a form of advanced life support — due to a very severe case of pneumonia. Soon after, we learned that she had gone into septic shock caused by an infection in her gallbladder. On September 25th, doctors placed a drain to help relieve the infection and give her a fighting chance.

As of September 28th, we are grateful to share that she is showing small but promising signs of recovery. She remains on life support and still has a long road ahead, but she is moving in the right direction — one baby step at a time.

Our family is not one to ask for help, especially financially. However, this situation has placed a significant strain on us. My mom does not have disability benefits through her employer, so we are now down an income in our household. On top of that, we are traveling to and from the hospital every day to be by her side, which adds up quickly in gas and daily parking expenses. Doctors expect she may remain hospitalized for several months.

Any financial assistance during this incredibly challenging time would mean the world to us. Whether it’s a donation, sharing our story, or simply keeping my mom in your thoughts and prayers — we truly appreciate your support.