This fundraiser is organized to support my friend Sharon Pugh during this challenging time as she cares for her son, Jake. With her permission and a written explanation, I want to share her story. Sharon is a hardworking single mother who is in need of assistance. I invite you to contribute any amount you can. Thank you for your support! Here is her story:

I would like to introduce my son, Jake. He is the sweetest and kindest soul you could ever meet. He shows kindness to strangers, demonstrates empathy for everyone facing hardships, and possesses wisdom and maturity beyond his years. Jake enjoys watching sports; he's a fan of the Orioles and the Ravens, playing video games, and spending time with his beloved dogs and family. He is incredibly intelligent and remembers random trivia as if it's stored in a computer.

Jake is 18 years old and was diagnosed with a bone tumor on his spine in his neck just two weeks before starting his first semester of college. Last year was particularly challenging for him, as he spent most of it in pain. By the end of the year, the pain had become so severe that it no longer responded to the 4-5 pain medications prescribed to him. In a span of three months, he had over 50 medical and physical therapy appointments.

In December 2024, Jake underwent neurosurgery to remove the tumor and fuse his vertebrae. Following the surgery, he experienced complications, including nerve palsy and facial paralysis on the lower right side of his face, as well as loss of sensation in his chin and a part of his neck. He will need to see a specialist for ongoing care. Jake will begin physical therapy soon, which will continue for several months. He has shown incredible strength throughout this ordeal, having previously endured two surgeries at ages 4 and 16 due to a birth defect.

Due to the need to focus on his recovery, Jake had to drop out of the spring semester of college, where he was enrolled in a pre-nursing program. He plans to make up his classes in the summer to stay on track within the program, but he has lost his financial aid and scholarship for the semester, which is only available for spring and fall. As a result, he will not have any financial assistance for his summer classes. Despite the pain he experienced and the need to miss classes, Jake completed his first semester of college with a 4.0 GPA.

The out-of-pocket expenses for Jake's medical care, including copays and time lost from work, have totaled over $10,000 in the last several months, much of which has been put on credit cards. As a single mom with three jobs, I had to stop working at two of them for two months to care for Jake.

Recently, I was diagnosed with diabetes and am experiencing visual changes that make it difficult for me to use the computer, further complicating my ability to return to all my jobs. I hope that in six months, our situation will improve, but for now, we are facing significant physical and financial challenges.

Any donation, no matter the amount, would be greatly appreciated. It would help me support Jake during his recovery and assist him in getting back on track this summer as he prepares for college. Jake has the potential to become a compassionate nurse, not only because of his character and intellect but also because of everything he has experienced as a patient himself.

We are also grateful for healing thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Thank you.