Bride’s Mother Thanks Supporters as Daughter Remains in Critical Care amid Honeymoon Tragedy (Exclusive)

The family expresses gratitude as donations pour in for Sarah Danh’s medical expenses while she’s being treated in Japan

Nursing graduation photo of Sarah Danh; Sarah Danh in the intensive care unit with her mother, Le Le.Credit : Courtesy of Le Le; Luke Gradl

NEED TO KNOW

Sarah Danh, a newlywed from Texas, is in critical condition with acute liver failure after suddenly falling ill during her honeymoon with husband Luke Gradl

Over $130,000 has been raised through GoFundMe to help cover medical expenses and travel costs for her care
Danh’s mother, Le Le, and uncle, Khang Le, expressed their gratitude for the support while speaking to PEOPLE

The mother of the bride who’s fighting for her life in Japan after her honeymoon took a terrifying turn wants to thank everyone for their support.

Sarah Danh, a 27-year-old labor and delivery nurse based in Texas, has been battling for her life for the past week in Tokyo. On the second day of her honeymoon, on April 9, she suffered a “life-threatening health decline” and has been in the intensive care unit with acute liver failure.

Danh’s mother, Le Le, recently joined her and her husband, Luke Gradl, 28, in Japan for “moral support.” She now tells PEOPLE that she’s blown away by all of the support her family has received and is expressing her gratitude.

Sarah Danh in the intensive care unit with her mother, Le Le.Luke Gradl

Since their story has garnered more attention, their GoFundMe — which was created to ease the financial burden of medical bills, flights and other urgent expenses — has skyrocketed. Over $130,000 has been raised as of Friday, April 17. Many people have also commented online that they’re praying for them.

“We are incredibly grateful for all the kind words, prayers, and support that have been shared during this difficult time,” Le says. “Each message, each prayer and every act of kindness has meant more to us than we can truly express.”

Nursing graduation photo of Sarah Danh.Courtesy of Le Le

“We also want to extend our deepest thanks to everyone who has generously donated to help with the medical expenses. Your compassion and willingness to step in and help has lifted a tremendous weight and brought us comfort when we needed it most,” she continues, adding that “knowing that so many people care and are standing with us gives us strength and hope as we navigate this challenging journey.”

Le says, “From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your love, support, and generosity — it truly means everything to us.”

Danh’s uncle, Khang Le, adds that seeing so much support pouring in has given them hope. “My family and I want to thank each and everyone for their support through donations, prayers for Sarah, and for sharing her story,” he tells PEOPLE. “We are truly grateful for your kindness and love.”

Sarah Danh in the intensive care unit with her husband, Luke Gradl.Luke Gradl

Gradl tells PEOPLE that efforts are underway to bring Danh home to the U.S. for further treatment. An emergency flight has been secured for next week. “The flight is scheduled for Tuesday, April 21, and will require multiple stops along the way back to San Antonio,” he says, explaining that “the flight is through AirMed, which is being provided through HCA and is affiliated with her work, Methodist Hospital.”

Danh’s condition is “stable but still critical condition,” Gradl adds. “We have been fighting for stability to be ‘fit for flight’ by both doctors in Japan and San Antonio.”