Our son, Terran Rucker, was involved in a terrible car accident on May 23, 2016. His sports utility vehicle rolled over several times on interstate 70 (located in Frederick, MD). He was immediately rushed to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma unit where he had undergone spinal surgery in an attempt to stabilize his spinal cord. His injuries were so severe, the doctor said it was a miracle that he made it out alive. In fact, his prognosis was permanent paralysis of all of his limbs. Terran remained in shock trauma for several weeks. He was unable to perform daily functions that you and I may take for granted. For example, he was unable to breathe and eat on his own. Terran was connected to a ventilator and feeding tube for quite some time. Eventually, he was able to breathe and eat on his own through the grace of God, prayers, and support.
Terran was transferred to a rehabilitation facility on June 16, 2016. He has received extensive physical therapy treatment to assist with his injuries in an attempt to regain sensation in his limbs. As expected, this is a long road to recovery for Terran. The doctors have given Terran a release date for the near future (weeks). However, living arrangements and care plans need to be very thorough in order to provide the 24-hour care that he will need. For example, he will have to live with us in a home that is not currently handicap accessible. Terran will also require assistance with daily functions such as feeding himself and using the bathroom due to his paralysis. We have received several referrals for resources, but many are outdated or unavailable due to a funding freeze.

What this family needs the most are prayers- not only for a full recovery, but also for the strength to overcome the challenges that we are faced with. The family also needs financial assistance. We will have to install ramps around the home so Terran will be able to get in and out of the home. The entryways will need to be expanded to get him in and out of rooms. This alone costs thousands of dollar. Additionally, Terran will need a customized electric wheelchair because he is unable to use his hands and feet. The insurance does not cover this cost. The cost of his wheelchair is thousands of dollars also. We are working through the logistics of a home health aide to provide 24 hour care for Terran. This will be another added expense.  We greatly appreciate monetary donations that will assist Terran with his transition and recovery.  A dollar donation can go a long way. Feel free to donate more if you are able to. We are extremely grateful for whatever your hearts and pockets can afford.

We are in a very difficult sitution right now. A parent's worst nightmare is for their child to go through a life altering experience. Unable to perform daily functions that we may take for granted. As parents, we will not let our son down and will do whatever it takes to provide him with the care that any parent should for their child.

Thank you for reading Terran's story. May God bless you.