Life can change in an instant, and for our family, that moment came this April.
I am a husband of 23 years and a father to two incredible kids—a 17-year-old son and a 14-year-old daughter. Our lives were steady, busy, and full of the everyday moments we often take for granted. Then, what started as a 5mm kidney stone quickly turned into something far more serious.
What followed was a severe UTI that led to multiple stent procedures and unexpected complications. The infection developed into a dangerous strain of bacteria—pseudomonas—and escalated rapidly into sepsis. Within a very short time, I went into septic shock and was admitted to the Critical Care Unit, where I spent four days fighting for my life, followed by eight more days in general care.
During this time, I experienced encephalopathy, with fluid and pressure affecting my brain. It has impacted my speech and mobility, and recovery has been slow and challenging. There were moments when the outcome was uncertain, and I came dangerously close to losing my life.
Since early April, I have been unable to work and have devoted my time and energy to healing. I have been attending physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy to regain the abilities many of us don’t think twice about.
The financial impact has been overwhelming. Between the hospital stay, ongoing medical appointments, therapy sessions, and even the cost of traveling back and forth for care, our savings have been depleted. What we thought was a stable foundation has quickly turned into a financial hardship for my wife and our two kids.
“Fall down seven, get up eight.” To me, this means no matter how many times life knocks you down, you keep finding the strength to stand back up and keep going. We are doing everything we can to stand back up and move forward, but we need help.
If you are able to give, no matter the amount, it would mean more than words can express. And if you are not in a position to donate, sharing this with others is just as meaningful.
Thank you for taking the time to read our story and for any support you can offer during this incredibly difficult time.
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