Support Joan's Journey to Recovery and Mobility

Help Joan rebuild her life after a medically necessary above-the-knee amputation.

Our beloved stepmother and grandmother, Joan Bordeaux, has spent her life helping others as a respected personal trainer at Gold’s Gym. At 73, she now faces the most difficult challenge of her life—one that has taken away her livelihood and left her future uncertain.

In June 2024, Joan began experiencing numbness in her left foot, which soon became unbearably painful. Doctors initially believed the issue stemmed from her spine and performed an epidural. However, further testing revealed severe vascular stenosis, restricting blood flow to her foot.

As the pain worsened, Joan underwent multiple procedures, including a thrombectomy and two angioplasties, in an attempt to restore circulation. Despite these efforts, by January 2025, the pain had become excruciating, and doctors performed two bypass surgeries—both of which failed.

Then came the heartbreaking news: to prevent gangrene, Joan’s leg would need to be amputated below the knee. She bravely accepted this reality, hopeful that modern prosthetics would help her regain mobility. But just days later, on February 4, 2025, doctors informed her that the initial amputation had not been enough. To save her life, they had to remove her leg above the knee.

Joan has always lived a healthy, active life—she doesn’t smoke or drink, eats well, and exercised regularly as a trainer. Yet, this unexpected turn of events has changed everything. She is now unable to work, and she and our 85-year-old grandfather are facing overwhelming financial uncertainty. Their three-story townhouse, once a comfortable home, is now a daily challenge filled with too many stairs.

Joan’s journey is far from over. She begins physical therapy in April, but with insurance limitations and the high cost of prosthetics, the financial burden continues to grow. We are asking for your support to help cover her medical expenses, rehabilitation, and the adjustments needed to create a safe, accessible living space.

Joan has dedicated her life to helping others stay strong and healthy—now, she needs our strength. Any contribution, no matter how small, will make a difference in helping her rebuild her life.

Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support.