Support Lilly Frank’s Surgery and Recovery

Last month, Lilly Frank underwent a major spinal surgery, and many of you have reached out with words of support and generosity for her. We wanted to provide an important post-surgery update on Lilly.

What was supposed to be one major surgery turned into something far more complex, much more costly, and a significantly longer process.

Due to complications, her spine had to be reconstructed. After six to seven hours in surgery and significant blood loss, doctors had to end before completing everything that was planned for her safety. Lilly now faces a four-month recovery before undergoing a second surgery to finish stabilizing her upper spine.

She spent a significant amount of time in the Acute Rehab unit at the hospital relearning how to walk, shower, dress, and climb stairs. At this time she is still unable to stand or walk on her own. We have recently transitioned her back into her home where she still requires major support through her recovery. Every night is a battle, but she is pushing forward with incredible strength.

How Your Donations Will Help:

• Skilled in-home care will be crucial for her recovery.

• Physical therapy & medical treatments will be essential.

• Care for her beloved dog for the next 7 months is urgently needed—fostering or other creative solutions welcome!

• Visits & emotional support make a huge difference in healing.

Lilly has been a dedicated member of the IATSE film community for 30 years. She’s fiercely independent, a devoted mother, and someone who has always cared for others—now, she needs us.

No donation is too small. Every contribution goes directly toward her care and recovery. Even sharing this post helps!

With gratitude,

Friends of Lilly Frank

A note from Lilly:

"Thank you to everyone for all your support and generosity. I am honestly, at times speechless and flooded with feelings of cozy love and hopefulness. Not only from the financial support I have received but also from the personal letters that have been filled with love and support. Here's an incredible story, one of my best friends from the 4th and 5th grade, (she moved away the following year), reached out and it was like we never missed a day, but also have so much to share. Long story longer, she is coming out here to help me and to give me some human company support...I can hardly wait.

Seriously, Let's get this leg a-walkin'!"

Original Go-Fund-Me Post

March 2025:

I’m reaching out on behalf of my friend, Lilly Frank, who has been dealing with the effects of a car accident for several years. After a long fight, she has finally been approved for the surgery she needs, but her recovery will be a long process.

Lilly will need at least three months of rest and care immediately after surgery. During this time, she won’t be able to walk her dog, cook meals, or manage daily tasks on her own. This fundraiser is to help cover home care, meal support, and pet care, so she can focus on healing without added stress.

Her full recovery is expected to take about a year, so any contribution, big or small, would mean the world to her. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this with others would be just as helpful.

Thank you for your support!