<div><strong>This GoFund Me Campaign is specifically raising money to help cover the cost of 24/7 at home care over the next 6 months so Wendy has the best opportunity to continue making progress through out patient physical therapy. </strong>
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<div>In the early morning hours of January 24th, our reality as we knew it was taken from us. Our Mom, Wendy, woke up in unbearable pain. My sister and Dad rushed to her aid as she cried out in pain. She described an intense headache and neck ache, leading me to immediately call 911. Wendy was rushed to Little Company of Mary, where she was placed in the ER. The nurse and attending doctor delivered the devastating diagnosis of a severe ruptured brain aneurysm was confirmed.
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<div>Over the next 12 hours, Wendy underwent two critical brain surgeries. The first surgery relieved intracranial pressure with drains, while the second tackled the aneurysm and removed some of the blood on her brain. Wendy's fierce spirit was evident as she fought through nearly 30 days in the ICU. She underwent every complication imaginable, long vasospasm and a dissecting major artery. As she approached day 30 in the ICU, she was deemed medically stable and was able to transfer to an LTAC rehab facility in Brea, CA.
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<div>Despite the challenges—breathing with support, a tracheostomy, and nutrition through a feeding tube—Wendy's determination never faltered. At the Brea LTAC, she tackled therapy sessions head-on, working towards participating in 3 hours of therapy daily to qualify for acute rehab.
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<div>During her stay at the LTAC, Wendy's care team recommended Shirley Ryan Ability Lab in Chicago, Illinois, known for its expertise in treating brain injuries. Our family was able to coordinate medical transport for her and long-term rental accommodations for us to be by her side during her recovery in Chicago. Wendy has been there since early April, but insurance limitations and the complexities of the U.S. medical system pose challenges to her continued care.
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<div>Returning home to our family home of nearly three decades is a goal we all share. While Wendy has come a long way since January 24th, she still has a long journey ahead. Wendy's current limitations in mobility and self-care mean she'll require 24/7 care. Simple tasks we often take for granted—getting out of bed, standing, walking, using the restroom—require total assistance for Wendy. Unfortunately, in-home care isn't covered by insurance, placing a significant financial and emotional burden on our family.
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<div>Wendy is not just our mom; she's a force of nature. Her New Yorker spirit, bluntness, and sharp tongue make her a captivating presence. She's the life of the party, enjoying an active lifestyle, working out with the same friends for nearly 15 years, and running her small business with passion. Though the road to recovery may be challenging, we're confident that with outpatient rehab and a supportive in-home team, Wendy can reclaim a life she loves.
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<div>We're reaching out to our community, friends, and loved ones for support. Every contribution, big or small, will make a difference in Wendy's recovery journey—helping cover essential in-home care, therapies, and medical expenses.
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<div>Thank you for standing with us during this challenging time. With your help, we believe Wendy can make remarkable strides towards her recovery.
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Charles Konell

Rhonda Young

Laura and Rob Brophy

Sheri Metzler

Chris Stevens

Josh Conde

Stephanie Gilbert

Kelvin Liu

GoFundMe Team

D.J. Bueno

Chhivgech Luy

Marco Sarkovich

Anonymous

Michael Carella

Lynne Goldman Johannesen

Kathleen Liberman

Jose Rosas

Leigh Medina

Ken Temkin

Support Wendy’s Legal Defense and Recovery Journey

Support Wendy’s Legal Defense and Recovery Journey

Still $55,714 to go. Help us build momentum.