Campaign Story

My name is Kari Rouse. I am 39 years old and a Mommy to a 2 1/2 year old named Karmik. On November 13,2022 I was lit on fire with lighter fluid. I burned alive as bystanders watched in Albany,NY.By happenstance a police officer in training drove by and saved my life. The fire extinguisher in the police car did not work and I burned and screamed for help for so much longer as he eventually put me out with a chemical blanket. I was airlifted to Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse,NY. After 45 days of being intubated in a coma I came into reality. 30% of my body is 3rd degree burnt and I permanently have a T-,Trach. My son is who keeps me going and is currently in foster care. I should have my son back by spring. In April I was diagnosed with acute myloid leukemia,spent 2 months in Albany Med and just finished chemo.I am also battling pulmonary tuberculosis in my lungs. Three times a week I receive iv antibiotics as well as take 3 more orally. My health has created a barrier in getting custody of Karmik back. I have started having seizures and although we have stable housing outside of Albany cps is all for the safety of my son and i. So we are moving in with my mom part time to have piece of mind if God forbid anything was to happen. Karmik and I desperately need a vehicle. There is no public transportation here and my Mom lives an hour from our apartment. We also need to survive life with basic necessities His father is nowhere in the picture and wouldn’t even sign his birth certificate. I have come a long way in the correct direction since I was attempted murdered. Karmik has the greatest,positive energy and keeps Mom focused and optimistic. Thank you for listening and taking your time to understand us. Bless everyone that contributes. Karmik and I are forever grateful. Take care and God bless.