Kathy Hernandez's Reconstructive Surgery

Hello All,

The purpose of this fundraiser is to raise funds for medical and travel expenses related to the Digestive Reconstructive Surgery for my mother, Kathy Hernandez. On October 9th, 2021, my mother went into the ER because of complications with swallowing and keeping food/water down. As it turned out, she had a severe hernia that cut off all blood and oxygen circulation to her stomach, killing it altogether. She had emergency, life-saving surgery wherein her entire stomach was removed, and it was certainly a miracle that she was able to survive. Since then, she has been healing and adjusting to life not being able to eat like everyone else. She currently sustains herself with the help of a nutrient drip that feeds directly into her digestive system.

It's been a long journey, but we haven't given up hope that she would one day be able to enjoy the experience of eating normally again. So, after a year-long search and many consultations, we've come across hospitals that are willing to take her complicated case. UC DAVIS is working with us and running tests to see if they would be able to attach her intestines directly to her esophagus, creating a functional eating system to help her relearn to eat and drink again. Any donations would go directly to the medical and travel expenses to aid my family in the costs associated with these procedures.

Thank you for your consideration and thank you for helping to make my incredible mother whole again!