Support Paola's Recovery from ICU Battle

My name is Paola Polanco, and I am writing to share my story and ask for your support during one of the most challenging times in my life. I am an international student from Guatemala, a recent college graduate, and someone who had big dreams for this year. But my life took an unexpected and difficult turn when I became critically ill just as I was beginning my full-time job.

At the end of December, I suddenly started feeling seriously unwell. I rushed to urgent care and learned that my oxygen levels were dangerously low. Soon after, I was admitted to the ICU, where I spent over three weeks fighting for my life. For an entire week, I was unconscious and fighting for survival. The doctors feared I might not survive. After many tests, I was diagnosed with viral pneumonia. The medical team worked tirelessly to save my life, and thanks to their care, I am now able to breathe again.

However, the financial burden from this life-or-death experience has been overwhelming. The original medical debt was over $200,000. While my insurance covered a portion of the costs, the fact that I was unable to work for months, along with the extensive medical expenses, has left me struggling to pay the remaining balance.

I am reaching out to you today because I cannot do this alone. As a single adult living in Salt Lake City, I don’t have family or other organizations to lean on for support. I’ve always prided myself on being self-reliant, but right now, I need help to get through this. Despite insurance covering a significant amount, I am still left with a substantial debt that continues to grow, especially since I’ve been unable to work at full capacity for most of the year.

This year has been a battle. The slow recovery has been physically and emotionally exhausting, and it’s impacted my ability to work hard and make up for lost time. Every day has been a struggle—not only with my health, but with the constant weight of financial uncertainty.

In July, my condition worsened again, and I was hospitalized a second time, requiring more intensive treatment. After months of unemployment, I’m now ready to return to work, but the remaining bills continue to threaten my recovery.

That’s why I’m reaching out to you. Your support—no matter how small—would make an incredible difference in helping me cover the remaining medical expenses. Every donation brings me one step closer to being free from the weight of this debt and allows me to focus on my recovery and future.

Please know that your kindness, generosity, and support mean more to me than words can express. The road to recovery is long, but with your help, I can continue to heal and rebuild my life.

Thank you for considering my request and for helping me during this incredibly difficult time.

With deepest gratitude,

Paola Polanco