Support Gigi after a severe stroke

Hi, my name is Michele Delaney and I'm fundraising on behalf of my dear friend Galena (Gigi) Magee, one of the most compassionate and generous people I've ever known.

On Sunday, February 18, Gigi was found collapsed in her home and unable to move to open the door or reach the phone. Based on her known activities and contacts, her family suspects she was there, alone on the floor, for several hours before her daughter found her and called emergency responders.

Doctors found that Gigi had suffered an ischemic stroke in her right basal ganglia, causing total paralysis on her left side. Without knowing the time of onset, and due to other complicating factors, she was not a candidate for the "clot-busting" medications that may have limited the impact of the stroke.

After a week in the ICU and several days in a step-down unit, Gigi has been transferred from her local hospital to an acute rehabilitation facility an hour from her home. While she shows signs of recovery in her face and speech each day, she remains unable to move her left side. It is unknown whether or when she will be unable to return to work, walk, or live independently. Despite daunting odds and challenges, she maintains her faith and positive outlook; her sharp sense of humor and mischievous spirit continue to shine brightly!

At age 63, Gigi has spent most of her life selflessly giving to others, as a mother, foster and adoptive parent, sister, friend, colleague, church member, and haven for anyone in need. She has worked for more than 20 years at Central Vermont Medical Center in a variety of roles supporting Diabetes Education, Smoking Cessation, Child Passenger Safety, and most recently, Outpatient Rehabilitation Services.

Ever the helper, asking for help is not in Gigi's nature. In her years of selfless caregiving, she has routinely set aside her own needs, including home maintenance and repairs. Before she can return home, extensive structural and utility work will be required to make her space safe and accessible.

Funds raised here will help with medical expenses, necessary home repairs and renovations, and bridging the gap between being out of work and receiving disability benefits. Gigi has given so generously of her heart, her home, and her personal resources. Let's show her it works both ways.