Dear Friends, Family, and Community,

Recently, our family was caught off guard when my sister-in-law, Michele Kelly, was scheduled for a cardiac catheter. Our biggest fear at the time was that she would be required to possibly have stents placed due to arterial blockages. We were unexpectedly informed that not only could she not return home, but she would also require an immediate, life-saving triple bypass surgery.

Anyone who knows Michele knows she is a beacon of selflessness. For the past several years, she has been required to be the primary caregiver for her husband, who has been battling his own serious health issues. She has given everything to take care of him and their family, never expecting anything in return. Now, roles have suddenly reversed, and she is the one who desperately needs our help.

Open-heart surgery is a terrifying ordeal, and the road to recovery is long, physically demanding, and emotionally draining. Because she was already acting as a full-time caregiver and couldn't work outside the home, the family was already on a very tight budget. Now, the overwhelming burden of impending medical bills, at-home care, travel expenses to and from the hospital, and everyday living costs has become too heavy for them to bear alone.

We are setting up this donation page to help ease the financial stress so Michele can focus entirely on her healing and rehabilitation without the looming dread of financial ruin. Your contributions will go directly toward:

1. Medical and surgical bills not covered by insurance
2. Post-operative at-home care and physical therapy
3. Basic household and living expenses while she recovers

Any amount—whether it is $5, $20, or $50—will make a massive difference and bring a profound sense of relief to our family.

You can make a direct donation here: 

https://www.givesendgo.com/caregiver-in-need-emqdq

If you are unable to donate at this time, we completely understand. You can still help us immensely by sharing this message with your network, or by keeping her in your thoughts and prayers.

Thank you so much from the bottom of our hearts for your kindness, generosity, and support during this incredibly difficult time.

With endless gratitude,

Dorothy DeLisa

dorothymdelisa@yahoo.com