On March 9, 2026, Crystal was in Kansas on a work trip when her life changed in an instant. Late that evening, she experienced a sudden and severe headache, along with paralysis and numbness on the right side of her body. Alone and facing something terrifying, Crystal bravely called 911 for herself.

She was rushed to a local hospital, where doctors discovered she was suffering from a brain bleed. Crystal was then transferred to The University of Kansas Hospital, where an emergency angiogram was performed to stop the bleeding. Further imaging revealed the cause—a mass in her brain.

On Wednesday, March 11, Crystal underwent a craniotomy to remove the tumor. The surgery was very successful, and doctors are confident the tumor was completely removed. She endured 35 staples and spent several days in the ICU before being moved to a regular hospital room.

On Friday, March 20, Crystal was transported by medical flight back to Wisconsin, where she is now receiving intensive physical, occupational, and speech therapy for several hours each day at UW Rehabilitation Hospital.

While Crystal continues to show strength and determination, she has a long and uncertain road ahead. We are still awaiting pathology results on the mass that was removed. She also continues to experience paralysis and limited mobility on her right side, making it unsafe for her to be alone or care for herself independently at this time.

Crystal has worked multiple jobs for years to support herself and her two daughters. Right now, her focus needs to be on healing—not on the overwhelming financial burden that comes with medical care, travel, rehabilitation, and time away from work.

Many friends and family members have asked how they can help. Although reluctant, Crystal has agreed to allow this GoFundMe to be created to help ease the financial stress during her recovery.

We will continue to share updates on Crystal’s progress and pathology results as they become available. Thank you for your prayers, kindness, love, and support as Crystal fights her way forward.