The Summers' Emergency Surgery Fund

Have you ever wondered how much your limbs are worth? Well, the hospital quoted John and Marie with a starting price of $70,000.

Last weekend, the couple picked up a brand new mattress and went to IKEA with their kids to buy a new bed frame. During their visit, John got inspired and said he wanted to build the bed frame instead. How could Marie say no to a creative man who loves to make stuff? They went across the street to Home Depot for supplies and went home.

While John was constructing the bed frame, his sweatshirt got caught on the 10 inch blade of his miter saw and pulled his left forearm into it. The blade went through muscle and tendons, and all the way to the bone. The ER surgeon wanted him stitched up, put in a cast, sent home with just enough pain relievers to make it through the night and to be back first thing in the morning for surgery.

John does not have insurance, and Marie does not qualify for coverage through her work. As a family of six living on an already limited income, they get to choose between health insurance and food.

John went into surgery. The doctors said it went well, but that it was possible he would not regain complete function of two of his fingers. Recovery could take 12 weeks. During that time, Marie's part-time job is the only income their family has. The bills for an ambulance, two ER visits, and a surgery have begun to roll in. Soon they will have bills for follow ups, and physical therapy to pay for as well. 

I have known Marie since high school. Marie and John are self-reliant people in need of assistance during an atypical financial crisis. They are creative, thrifty, and hardworking. Marie works as a teacher's aid and volunteers as a troop leader for the Boy Scouts. John works nights as a Lead Print Operator and recently took on a second job during the day as well. The pair have four children who they are raising to be bright, spirited, creative people. Until recently, they have been working towards paying off existing debts and saving up to buy a house closer to family. Marie recently went back to school to get her teaching degree. 

Marie, John and their family would be very grateful for any contribution you are able to make to their expenses. They are reluctant to ask for help, but the financial pressures of this accident will have long term consequences for all six of them.

Thank you in advance for your time, and for sharing this page and making a contribution if you are able to. It is so very much appreciated.