Support Mary’s Surgery and Family Needs

My name is Sheila, and I’m writing this on behalf of my best friend — my chosen sister — Mary.

Mary is one of the most resilient, selfless, and determined women I’ve ever known. She’s a single mother to two amazing teenagers, Rita (15) and Stephen (14), and she has fought through hardship after hardship to give them the life they deserve.

She’s put herself through college and graduate school while raising her kids totally on her own. She has worked tirelessly — managing jobs, parenting, and school — and despite everything life has thrown at her, she’s about to graduate with her Master’s Degree in Social Work, having earned straight A’s all the way through.

But just as Mary is standing on the edge of a new chapter — with a job offer in her dream career already lined up — a major health setback is threatening everything she’s worked so hard for.

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The Urgent Need

Back in 2017, Mary was in a car accident that caused serious damage to her spine. She’s lived in pain ever since — quietly and courageously — but in recent months, her condition has become critical. She’s now facing major spinal surgery, and she cannot delay if she wants a chance at a full recovery.

Mary has insurance, but the upfront costs for imaging, surgery, and recovery are more than she can manage alone. Worse, she won’t be able to start her new job or earn an income until she’s recovered — and as the sole provider for her two children, that’s a terrifying reality.

We’re trying to raise $25,000 to help Mary cover:

• Rent, utilities, and basic living expenses during her recovery

• Food and school-related needs for Rita and Stephen

• Upfront insurance costs and out-of-pocket medical bills

• Post-op rehabilitation and transportation for follow-up care

This isn’t just about medical bills. This is about helping a mother keep her family safe, stable, and hopeful while she fights to get healthy and begin the life she’s worked so hard to build.

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Mary’s Strength and Heart

Mary has never had it easy. She fought through a home foreclosure, doing everything she could to protect her family before they eventually lost the home they loved. Still, she never gave up. She kept going — for her kids, for her future, and for everyone she dreams of helping as a social worker.

Even while in pain and under constant pressure, Mary has shown up for others. She’s volunteered, mentored, and supported those around her — always believing in community and compassion, even when life wasn’t compassionate to her.

She’s the strongest person I know — but right now, she needs all of us to help her stand back up.

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How You Can Help

Mary would never ask for this help herself, which is why I’m doing it for her. I’ve watched her fight battles most people don’t see, and I know how close she is to finally reaching the light at the end of the tunnel.

If you can donate, even a little, it will make a real difference. If you can share her story, you’re helping us reach more people who may be able to give. And if you can send prayers or words of encouragement, they truly mean the world.

Mary has always been the one to show up for others. Now it’s our turn to show up for her.

Thank you so much for your love and support.

- Sheila