Help with Lauras' Unexpected Turn

Hello, I'm Anna Messina, and I'm reaching out to you today to ask for your support for a dear friend and coworker, Jose Valdez, and his partner, Laura Barajas. Their lives have taken an unexpected and devastating turn, and we are hoping that together, we can make a difference for this loving family.

Laura, a 40-year-old mother to a wonderful six-year-old boy named Gael, recently purchased fish from a local market in San Jose and cooked herself dinner after a long day. Little did she know that this simple act would change her life forever. The following day, Laura realized something was terribly wrong, and she was diagnosed with Vibrio Vulnificus, a dangerous bacterial infection.

Laura has been in the hospital for over a month, fighting for her life, she is now a quadruple amputee. On September 13, 2023 all four of Lauras' limbs had to be removed in order to save her life. Throughout this incredibly challenging time, Jose has been right by her side, providing unwavering support. He has had to miss work to care for Laura and Gael. Additionally, Jose shares custody of his two other children, whom he has not been able to see due to the immense time and stress this situation has brought upon their lives.

This family is in desperate need of our help. While Jose has health benefits through his work, it remains uncertain whether they will cover Laura, his partner of eight years. Jose's paid time off (PTO) has been exhausted, and the Family Disability program provides only 60% of his normal income. The mounting hospital bills are overwhelming, and Laura's physical condition will necessitate significant changes to their lives as they adapt to her new circumstances.

We kindly request that you find it in your hearts to support this beautiful family during this incredibly challenging time. What has happened to them could happen to any of us, and together, we can make a meaningful difference. Your generosity will help alleviate the financial burden they face and allow them to focus on Laura's recovery and adjusting to their new reality.

For those who would like to learn more about Vibrio Vulnificus and how to stay safe, we have included a link to recent CDC warnings below.

https://emergency.cdc.gov/han/2023/han00497.asp

Thank you for your compassion and generosity. Every contribution, no matter the size, will bring this family one step closer to healing and rebuilding their lives.

Sending love and gratitude to each and every one of you reading this.

With heartfelt thanks,

Anna Messina and Friends