I’m creating this fundraiser for one of my best friends Amanda, and her husband Chris- because they are facing an overwhelming series of losses and medical hardships that no family should have to endure all at once.

Two weeks ago Amanda lost her bonus-father. While she was still in first few days of facing grief, three days later, her husband was rushed to the hospital in critical (still stable) condition after suffering a collapsed lung. He has been hospitalized since January 23rd and is now preparing to undergo Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) along with pleurodesis, a necessary procedure to help prevent further lung collapse and allow healing to begin.

While this surgery is essential, it comes with a long recovery and continued medical care. Although they do have insurance, it’s still unclear how much will be covered, and the medical bills are already adding up. On top of that, her husband will be unable to work for quite some time, suddenly taking their household from two incomes down to one.

Anyone who knows Amanda knows the kind of person she is. She would truly give the shirt off her back to help someone in need. She has always shown up for the people she loves—quietly, selflessly, and without even being asked. During some of the lowest moments of my life, Amanda was there for me, steady and supportive, expecting nothing in return.

Amanda is currently working two jobs to keep things afloat while also being at the hospital, supporting her husband, managing medical decisions, and grieving the recent loss of her bonus-dad. It’s an unimaginable amount for one person to carry, and she shouldn’t have to do it alone.

This fundraiser is to help with medical expenses, food, everyday bills, and basic living costs while they navigate this incredibly difficult season. If there is anything I can do to help the people who have always been there for others, this is where I’m at.

If you’re able to donate, please know that any amount helps more than you know. If donating isn’t possible right now, even sharing this fundraiser makes a huge difference.

Thank you for reading, for caring, and for supporting a family that truly deserves it.