Salina Post
A Meal Train and GoFundMe have been started for a mother of three who was diagnosed with a serious medical emergency.
Jennifer Sparks (Espinoza) of McPherson was rushed to the ER on July 2 with severe chest pains and labored breathing. Upon running tests, it was determined to be a diaphragmatic hernia. The muscle holding her stomach and intestines in place had a basketball-sized hole in it and her stomach and intestines were in her chest.
She said she will be out for 4-6 weeks and will be unable to contribute for her family.
"I required emergency treatment and surgery and am now home recovering. Doctors expect my recovery to take at least 4–6 weeks, and during this time I am unable to work or contribute the way I normally would for my family," she said.
According to Sparks, her oldest child is on the spectrum for autism, while middle child is severely autistic and youngest is diagnosed with ADHD.
She said most of her day is spent traveling back and forth to appointments throughout central Kansas for her children. Sparks added that most of her immediate family has passed away and struggles with financial support due to not having a big social circle.
Moreover, her husband started back at work after being off for medical reasons just recently.
"This sudden situation has left us without income at a time when our basic expenses—lot rent, utilities, gas, groceries, fuel, and caring for our children and animals—continue to add up quickly," she said. "We are doing everything we can to stay afloat, but we are struggling."
To donate to the Meal Train, click here.
To donate to the GoFundMe, click here.