Support Valerie Tafoya's Brain Surgery Recovery

On October 8, 2024, our world was turned upside down when our little sister, Valerie Tafoya, just 33 years old, was rushed to the hospital. For a few days, she had been struggling with a sudden loss of control over the motor skills on her right side. When her speech began to slur, it became clear something was seriously wrong. That day, the doctors discovered a large brain mass located deep in the left Caudate Nucleus and Basal Ganglia area—a place so delicate and dangerous that immediate action was needed.

At just 33, Valerie is at a stage in life where everything seemed to be falling into place. She had recently started a new job, had recently gotten married, and was just beginning to hit her stride. The news of this brain mass has been a devastating blow, interrupting what should have been a time of growth and happiness. Her neurosurgeon has determined that surgery is necessary to remove the mass, and the procedure is set for October 23, 2024. While we remain hopeful and optimistic, we know the road ahead will be filled with challenges.

The surgery itself carries significant risks, given the mass's size and location, and even after a successful operation, Valerie will need months of rehabilitation to regain her strength and motor skills. To make things even more difficult, because she only started her job two months ago, she doesn't yet qualify for FMLA or other benefits, which leaves her without a safety net during this time of need.

We’re asking for your help to support Valerie through this fight. Funds will go toward covering her medical expenses, the loss of income expected for at least the next three months, and the outpatient rehabilitation services she'll need to make a full recovery. Valerie has always been a light in our lives—a source of kindness, laughter, and love. She’s the friend who’s there when you need her, the sister who brightens a room, and the person who never hesitates to help others.

Now, it’s our turn to rally around her. Any contribution, big or small, will help ease the financial burden and allow Valerie to focus on what matters most—healing and getting back to the life she deserves. Thank you for standing with us and for offering your love and support during this difficult time.