My name is Germaine Searle Habet, and I am a close friend of Milagro Garel. I am helping organize this fundraiser with Milagro’s family, friends, and colleagues to support her family with the overwhelming medical expenses resulting from her care.

For more than 20 years, Milagro served as a dedicated advocate for children in Belize, working tirelessly to ensure they received the specialized medical and surgical care they needed. Through her compassion and unwavering commitment, Milagro gave hope to countless families and helped save the lives of many children who might otherwise have gone without critical treatment. Her selfless work touched so many lives.

On July 28, Milagro suffered a devastating ruptured cerebral aneurysm. Because the specialized neurosurgical care she urgently needed was not available in Belize, she was transferred to a hospital in Guatemala. There, she underwent multiple medical procedures and received extensive hospital and intensive care. Despite the extraordinary efforts to save her, we are heartbroken to share that Milagro passed away on August 31.

The cost of Milagro’s international medical transportation, surgeries and other procedures, intensive care, hospitalization, medications, and related treatment continued to grow throughout her hospitalization. Her family is now grieving an immeasurable loss while also facing an overwhelming and unexpected financial burden.

All funds raised through this fundraiser will be used to pay Milagro’s outstanding hospital and medical bills resulting from her emergency care and treatment. A dedicated account has been opened specifically to receive and safeguard the fundraiser proceeds. The funds will be transferred to Milagro’s husband, Joe Garel, who will use them to pay these medical expenses on behalf of their family.

Milagro spent her life giving hope to others. Now, we ask our community to help support the family she leaves behind. Every donation, no matter the size, will help ease the tremendous financial burden they are facing. If you are unable to give, please consider sharing this fundraiser with your family, friends, and community.

Thank you for honoring Milagro’s life, standing with her family, and keeping them in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.