Main fundraiser photo

Vicky Ma Stroke Recovery Fund

Donation protected
March 4, 2019 began as any other day. Vicky Ma was teaching her “second grade superstars”, as she called them, at River Bluff Elementary School in Fresno, CA. That morning Vicky experienced a headache but continued to teach until the pain was too much and she asked a fellow teacher to take her class for a while. Alone in her room, Vicky suffered an unexpected stroke and was later found by a fellow teacher. Emergency services were called and she was taken to Fresno Community Hospital where she underwent emergency surgery and was admitted to the Neuroscience ICU in critical condition.

The stroke was caused by Moyamoya disease, a rare disorder which causes blockage of the arteries at the base of the brain, without surgery it is fatal. Vicky’s condition was not known as she had no symptoms prior to the stroke.

The stroke caused significant trauma to the brain and at this time it is still difficult to assess what her long-term function will be. She received two additional surgeries since initially being admitted to the ICU where she remained for two months. She has been making progress but it is slow and she is still unable to breathe or eat without the assistance of medical devices. She has slowly regained consciousness and had small victories; wiggling her toes, giving a thumbs up, and opening her eyes at times. Recently Vicky was discharged to a skilled nursing facility where she can continue to receive the high-level of care she requires. It is however a long journey which she continues to bravely fight.


Vicky is a beloved sister, daughter, aunt, and friend who gives of herself and shares her strength with others in times of need. She recently lost her older sister and father to cancer and has been a source of care and support for her family during these difficult times. Since her stroke Vicky’s mother and sister have been by her side and supported her doing what they can to aid in her recovery.


Vicky has touched many lives as a teacher for Central Unified School District. She is dedicated to her students and works to improve the learning experience for them, often spending her own money and time so that they may have a better learning experience. Vicky shows great care for her students making sure they know they are respected and special and that they learn to show those qualities as well.


After caring for so many, Vicky is now in need of care. She was lucky to have insurance, however an event such as this has proven too costly. Vicky’s coverage will run out after two months in skilled nursing. At which time her mother and sister will face the reality of trying to provide care for her themselves as there will be a lapse in the time before she can qualify for Medi-Cal. Vicky’s family wishes to continue skilled nursing care beyond the time allowed by insurance so that she may have additional recovery time as her condition is still serious. Donations will help the family with medical expenses and are greatly appreciated as are your continued thoughts and prayers. Vicky’s mother and sister would like to thank all those who have expressed their love and support. They have faith that Vicky will continue to progress.
Donate

Donations 

    Donate

    Co-organizers (3)

    Andrea Barredo Schlatter
    Organizer
    Fresno, CA
    Jennifer Ma
    Beneficiary
    Jennifer Ma
    Co-organizer
    Nancy Forden
    Co-organizer

    Your easy, powerful, and trusted home for help

    • Easy

      Donate quickly and easily

    • Powerful

      Send help right to the people and causes you care about

    • Trusted

      Your donation is protected by the GoFundMe Giving Guarantee