I have been friends with Pamela for over 40 years. Pamela was born 70 years ago with multiple birth defects, missing her left foot and left arm below the elbow, as well as a cleft palate and half of her tongue. Despite these challenges, she has always shown incredible resilience. Last year, Pamela had to undergo surgery to amputate over six inches of her left leg due to long-term nerve damage, which meant learning to walk again with a new artificial leg. Through it all, Pamela has remained strong and independent, caring for her young grandchildren and supporting her family every day.

Recently, Pamela suffered a torn rotator cuff and tendon in her right shoulder—her only hand and arm. She now needs surgery to repair these injuries. Without it, she risks losing the use of her only hand, which would take away her independence and ability to care for herself and her loved ones. Her medical insurance will only cover part of the surgery and very little of the rehabilitation facility costs. For at least seven weeks, Pamela will need to stay in a rehabilitation facility and rely completely on a caregiver for basic needs like feeding, hygiene, and dressing.

Pamela has spent her life caring for her daughter, her husband, her mother, her grandchildren, and her brother. Now it's time for us to help give back to the woman who has given so much of her life to others. Any amount that you can donate will be an immense help and show of support. This means the world to a woman who would never ask for help for herself.