HOPE for Robin!!!

Both of my parents have been active members in the Northern Nevada community for decades as civil servants. My mom, Robin Smith, has been a nurse at Saint Mary's Hospital and my dad, Gary Smith, has been a police officer, for the past 30 years. Between the two of them there was never a challenge that couldn't be defeated and never an end to helping those in need. They have always been there to provide strength when you are weak, protection when you are scared, wisdom when you are unsure, compassion when you are hurting and hope when you are lost and have never asked for anything in return. They love unconditionally and bring joy to every life they touch.

My mom was admitted to the hospital the week before Thanksgiving for breathing problems. Her doctors didn't know what was the cause of the problems and tried everything they could think of to treat her. A week after she was admitted her condition went from bad to worse and she was put on life support. She was diagnosed with SARDS caused by pneumonia which was brought on by a strain of the H1N1 virus that had gone undetected in previous tests. Anyone who knows my mother knows that she is a strong woman who never gives up. Even though she has been unconscious throughout most of her ordeal, her strength has helped her hold on even after her doctors said that she may not survive.

While my mom does have health insurance, the cost of keeping her in the hospital on life support is steep and the cost of her treatment moving forward will be extensive. In her time of need we are asking that those who have known her, or know of someone like her, give back to keep the hope going and help aid in her recovery. Thank you and God bless!