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Valerie’s Fight: A Story of Resilience and Hope

What would you do if you lost nearly all your intestines and were told you might not survive? Valerie didn't just survive...

Valerie's recovery firsts:  First time to sit up, first time outside, and first steps.
Valerie's recovery firsts: First time to sit up, first time outside, and first steps.

When life throws unimaginable challenges your way, it’s the strength of the human spirit that shines through. Valerie’s story is one of courage, perseverance, and an unyielding will to keep going against all odds. Today, we’re asking you to join her journey by supporting her GoFundMe campaign, Alive Against All Odds: Help Valerie Keep Going.

A Life Tested by Adversity

Valerie is no stranger to hardship. As a teen, a car wreck left her with permanent neck damage and frequent headaches -- that was the beginning of her traumatic experiences. As an adult, during a perfect storm of grief-inducing events, Val attempted to end it all, taking 70 sleeping pills. The moment she gulped them down, she had immediate regret, realized she didn't want to die and called 911. When the police arrived, she was already unresponsive. Life-flighted to Utah Valley Hospital, the staff worked diligently to keep her alive; juggling medications to balance her dropping blood pressure with her rapid heart rate.

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Unfortunately, her body sacrificed her bowels in order to preserve her other core organs. Her surgeon had to take all her colon and nearly all of her small intestine, which had all died. He was doubtful what was left was going to be enough to keep her alive. When Val finally became conscious, she discovered a very large scar and an ostomy bag on her very tender abdomen. Despite being tied to an ostomy bag for the rest of her life, and having ongoing complications that land her in the emergency room more often than she'd like, she is still very grateful for her new lease on life.

Valerie's first time to sit up. A sweet nurse braided Val's hair while she was still unconscious.

Despite these trials, Valerie’s spirit remains unbroken. Her smile, her determination, and her hope inspire everyone who knows her. In her determination to create a new life for herself, she sobered up, she found a job that could accommodate her condition, got a small apartment, spent time in therapy and resumed her Masters program in social work. But now, she needs our help to keep fighting.
The funds raised through Valerie’s GoFundMe will directly go to her ongoing hospital bills, her student loans, and her surprisingly-expensive ostomy supplies. Every dollar donated will make a tangible difference, helping Valerie focus on healing, rebuilding her life, and giving back without the crushing weight of financial stress.

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Valerie's first trip outside after her ordeal

Why Your Support Matters

Crowdfunding is more than just raising money—it’s about building a community around someone in need. Valerie’s campaign isn’t just her story; it’s an invitation for you to become part of it. Your donation, whether $5, $25, or more, will help cover her ongoing medical bills and supplies and will enable her to finish rebuilding her life, now dedicated to helping others through this trying experience.

But your support goes beyond dollars. By sharing Valerie’s story on social media, with friends, or in your community, you amplify her voice and give her hope a wider reach. Imagine the impact if every reader shared her campaign—together, we could change her life.

Giving Back Through Inspiration

Valerie’s journey has taught her the power of resilience, and she’s determined to pay it forward. With a heart full of gratitude, she wants to share her story of overcoming unimaginable challenges by speaking to youth groups, inspiring kids who may be struggling with thoughts of suicide to choose hope instead. Her message is one of courage, love, and the strength found in community—perfect for schools, nonprofits, or youth organizations seeking a powerful voice to uplift young hearts. If you’d like to invite Valerie to speak and share her transformative story, please contact her through her GoFundMe organizer’s contact button to arrange a speaking engagement.

Valerie's first steps
A Call to Action

Valerie’s resilience reminds us that even in the darkest moments, there’s light to be found. Now, it’s our turn to shine that light for her. Please visit Valerie's GoFundMe page and consider donating today. No amount is too small—every contribution brings Valerie closer to stability and hope.
If you can’t donate, you can still make a difference. Share this article, post the GoFundMe link on X, Facebook, or Instagram, and use the hashtag #HelpValerie to spread the word. Reach out to local media or influencers who might amplify her story. Together, we can help Valerie keep going.

Be Part of Her Story

Valerie’s fight is a testament to the power of hope and community. As she faces each day with courage, let’s stand beside her. Visit her GoFundMe, donate, and share her story today. Let’s show Valerie that she’s not alone—and that together, we can help her triumph against all odds.
Your support means more than words can express. Thank you for being part of my journey.” – Valerie

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