Hello friends and family,

I come to you today, somewhat embarrassed to ask for help, but after spending six weeks in the hospital, I realize I can’t do this alone. Six weeks ago, while on my way to meet my family for dinner, I suddenly fell ill. Thankfully, friends were nearby and called an ambulance, getting me to the hospital just in time. My blood pressure was dangerously low, and my hemoglobin count was severely depleted, which meant I was in critical condition. I was admitted to the University of Pennsylvania Hospital and spent time in the Intensive Care Unit. The medical team performed an upper GI, which came back clear, but the first colonoscopy revealed a major polyp. They were unable to remove it the first time, so a second colonoscopy was performed. This time, the polyp broke into pieces, and the doctor said it looked like cancer. Hearing this news was terrifying, and I was afraid for my life. Part of the polyp had grown into my colon, so the GI team had to remove the entire right side—a third of my colon. Thankfully, the surgery went well, and after two weeks, the biopsy results showed my colon was clear of cancer. I am grateful to God for giving me a second chance at life.

Now, I am on my sixth week in the hospital, and funds are very tight. Between rent, bills, phone, electric, and needing to restock my apartment when I return, I am struggling to cover basic living expenses. I also need to purchase devices that will help make life easier, as I am now more disabled than before. I feel very embarrassed to do this, but I truly need help from friends and family. Any support you can offer is deeply appreciated, and I promise to pay it forward when I am back on my feet. Thank you for being there for me.