San Angelo Mother Seeks Support for Daughter’s Brain Surgery

SAN ANGELO, TX - A San Angelo mother is seeking help from the community to support her 2-year-old daughter, Chelly, who is in need of brain surgery.

The mother recently learned from doctors that Chelly has an abnormality in her brain that requires immediate medical attention.

Chelly’s condition was discovered Oct. 23 after a CT scan showed brain abnormalities, which Camarillo attributes to an incident at three months old when Chelly sustained head trauma from a fall.

The toddler’s medical team has now recommended surgery to install a tube in her brain to help drain fluid and alleviate pressure. She is scheduled to undergo further evaluation at Cook Children's Medical Center in Fort Worth.

According to Camarillo, the situation has disrupted what was supposed to be a peaceful holiday season for her and her daughter. Having recently emerged from homelessness, Camarillo secured a stable home and full-time job earlier this year to provide a better life for Chelly. However, the cost of frequent medical trips, alongside other expenses, has placed a financial burden on the single mother, who recently also lost her car in an accident.

While Chelly’s insurance will cover most of her medical expenses, Camarillo explained that she lacks the resources to meet additional costs such as transportation and accommodations for out-of-town medical appointments. In a GoFundMe campaign organized by Camarillo, she describes her situation as “another obstacle,” but one she is determined to overcome with the support of her community.

As of Oct. 29, the fundraiser has raised $105 toward a $1,000 goal. Donations can be made on the GoFundMe page titled “Support for 27-Month-Old Chellys Brain Surgery Treatment,” organized by Sierra Camarillo.

For those interested in contributing, the GoFundMe page can be found at gofund.me/5eedcfab.