My name is Carlos Martinez Leal, and I live and work in Springfield, MO. I am raising funds on behalf of my 66-year-old mother, Laura Leal, who has been treated for Multiple Myeloma since 2024 in the city of Maracaibo, Venezuela. Since June 2026, her health has progressively deteriorated, including impairment of mental and physical capabilities to the point of being bedridden: recurrent lung infections and UTIs, and even COVID. Just very recently, it was found out that she had Acute Hydrocephalus, a condition where the brain fluid pressure increases, affecting many areas of the brain. VP Shunt surgery was performed to relieve the pressure by implanting a valve in the brain that drains to the digestive system, since the risk of dying was real.

Her financial condition is difficult, and the health system in Venezuela doesn't offer much of a choice. My uncle and I have been providing financial support to cover her medical needs so far. Still, the level of expenses has skyrocketed in the last 4 months, including 3 hospitalizations and 24-hour medical support at home, as well as the brain surgery. According to the doctors, she will require extensive medical attention and therapies to recover after surgery, and will also need to retake the Multiple Myeloma treatment, as well. The level of financial support we provide to her is already stretched to the limit. We need the support of donors to help her to regain her place in life. She has fought the myeloma like a warrior with a decent degree of success, but this new challenge is extremely demanding. We have good doctors treating her, but all expenses have to be paid in advance to make things work. We reach out to all good-hearted people to help Laura recover and live her life again. Our warm thanks to all of you.