Hi, my name is Sandy Michelle Ruiz. I wanted to start by thanking everyone who has generously donated and supported my family and me on this new journey! We are deeply grateful for your donations. Everyone has played a part in sharing my story and encouraging others to donate.

For those who don’t know my story, I spent almost two months in the hospital, where I experienced many medical complications. I battled through a very invasive MRSA infection, which led to wholly losing my right eye. I was also diagnosed with lupus, cirrhosis and also learned that my diabetes was causing me to have even more severe symptoms. Even though it’s been challenging, I won’t give up! I have now reached a point in my journey where I can excitingly announce that I can have a prosthetic eye inserted.

Although this news is exciting, it’s also scary! Because of the severity of the MRSA infection, large amounts of tissue and nerves were removed from my eye socket. To successfully perform this surgery, doctors must remove and use tissue inside my mouth. This is quite an invasive procedure. I will spend the following weeks after surgery recuperating not only from my eye but also from my mouth.

Since I returned home, every day has been a new experience. I've been unable to return to work. I’m learning to navigate this new life of mine with monocular vision. I've struggled with severe digestive issues related to not only my chronic diseases but also to the excessive amount of medications I intake daily. Simple tasks are not simple anymore, and many times, I find myself feeling overwhelmingly anxious. This surgery will help me not only physically but also mentally.

I hope to raise enough money through this GoFundMe to pay for the prosthetic eye surgery!