ST. LOUIS - A fundraiser organized by Morgan Stewart is seeking financial support for Ashley Gingery, a healthcare worker and mother of four who, according to the fundraiser, is facing mounting medical needs and bills after a work-related injury and an assault by a patient.
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The fundraiser, titled “Supporting Ashley Gingery During an Unimaginable Time,” says Gingery has worked in health care for 11 years and has faced “more challenges than anyone ever should” over the past two years while continuing to “put patients and her team first.”
According to the GoFundMe description, Gingery suffered a serious work-related injury that required major back surgery last year, keeping her out of work for more than 12 weeks. The fundraiser says that after she returned, ongoing complications led to additional unscheduled time off, adding to physical and financial strain.
The fundraiser also says Gingery was later assaulted by a patient while “trying to prevent the patient from eloping.” The description states she was punched in the face and now requires jaw surgery and neck surgery.
“These events have created significant financial hardship,” the fundraiser says, adding that Gingery is “behind on many of her bills” while facing upcoming surgeries and recovery time.
Ashley made the following comments about her situation:
"You never think it could happen to you... While at work, I was assaulted by a patient. I was knocked out, and thankfully, I don't remember much. But now I suffered a broken jaw and four herniated disks in my neck. I started with surgery to repair my neck, then if everything goes OK, in three or four months, we can start talking about jaw surgery, which I'll get plates on each side.
"My jaw issues make it hard to eat, talk, chew, and do anything. I have been wearing a brace in my mouth, which seems to help a little. I know a lot of people are struggling right now in their own ways. If you can't help, please just share this post. That is help enough."
The GoFundMe description asks for donations “no matter the size” to help ease the financial burden and allow Gingery to focus on healing.
