Kathy Virden is my dear friend, and she has always been someone who cared for others—she was a traveling nurse before her life changed in an instant. On June 9, 2024, while driving home, Kathy’s truck was t-boned on her side. The accident was so severe that she had to be cut out of her vehicle and was immediately put on life support. She spent two weeks in an induced coma, fighting for her life.

Kathy’s injuries were extensive: both clavicles were broken, two ribs on her right side were fractured, she suffered a punctured lung and a collapsed left lung, and her right hip was broken and required surgery. She also had a nicked artery, ended up with a tracheostomy, and was placed on a ventilator. Kathy has diabetes, and being immobilized led to an open wound on her heel that became infected, resulting in a below-the-knee amputation. She also underwent surgery to repair a hole in her esophagus, but unfortunately, it did not heal well, leaving her with a permanent tracheostomy. To make matters even more difficult, Kathy has no insurance to cover any of these overwhelming expenses. Ongoing lung problems have also put her back in the hospital several times, making her recovery even more challenging.

The funds raised will go directly toward Kathy’s medical bills and living expenses as she faces a long road to recovery and adapts to life after her amputation. I want to thank everyone who will help with this—Kathy is a very special lady, and your support means the world to her and to all of us who care about her. Please consider donating or sharing this fundraiser to help Kathy get the support she needs.