Karisa is the devoted wife of Tony and mother to seven wonderful children (6 who still live at home). On Friday, April 3rd, she was hospitalized for intussusception, a medical emergency where one segment of the intestine folds into an adjacent segment, causing a bowel obstruction and cutting off blood supply to the affected tissue. While facing this life-threatening diagnosis, Karisa was also diagnosed with thyrotoxic crisis, known as 'Thyroid storm.' This rare and dangerous condition is characterized by a sudden, severe exacerbation of hyperthyroidism, leading to multi-system hypermetabolism and potential organ failure.

Karisa was transferred to UW and underwent surgery on April 8th. The surgery for intussusception was successful, but she continues to struggle with her thyroid and remains very weak, requiring full-time care. Her husband Tony is home with her and their seven children, doing his best to support the family. Unfortunately, taking paid medical leave is not an option for them, and the decrease in income has made it difficult to keep up with daily expenses. Tony is a hardworking husband and father who usually works many hours of overtime to keep their large family afloat, but right now, his priority is caring for Karisa and their children.

The funds raised through this campaign will help Karisa and her family with their mortgage, monthly bills, groceries, and fuel. Any amount of donation would be life giving for this incredible family. Taking the weight off so that Karisa can heal and Tony can be home to help his wife and family recover from this life-threatening event would be such a gift to them. Your support means the world to them during this challenging time.