Support Vilma Fortaleza's Brain Surgery & Recovery

Hello everyone,

My name is Heidi Palacios. I am here today on behalf of my cousin Vilma Fortaleza, who resides in the Philippines. She was diagnosed with a cerebellopontine angle meningioma measuring 4.4 x 3.3 x 6.1 cm this past June 2024. Since then, she had frequent visits to the hospital.

In July 29, she had her first emergent surgery which took more than 20 hours to complete. Vilma was then transferred to ICU for recovery. She was doing well and was getting ready for discharge for Aug 10th. However, a few hours prior to sending her home, Vilma became unresponsive (indication of an early stage of coma per her doctor). A second emergency surgery was performed to relieve the pressure in her brain by placing a VP (ventriculoperitoneal ) shunt.

Vilma's family received some financial support from their government, the family, and friends. However, with the unexpected second surgery hence longer hospitalization, they are again facing another challenge to find more funds.

This is why I am here before you, humbly asking for whatever amount you can donate to help Vilma and her family cover some of the medical cost.

Thank you all for the support. We greatly appreciate your kindness & generosity.