The Bus of Hope: Supporting the Reid Family

On May 11, Jim Reid entered the hospital, experiencing stroke-like symptoms. By that evening, an MRI revealed a tumor. The next day, a surgeon removed most of it; Jim is now undergoing treatment for a fatal brain cancer called glioblastoma.

Eleven years earlier, Jim and his wife Melissa were in another hospital room as doctors explained their four year old daughter, Rachel, had experienced catastrophic strokes on both sides of her brain. The result of a severe E.Coli infection, the strokes nearly ended Rachel’s life. In those terrifying moments, Jim and Melissa chose hope over despair. They asked Rachel’s care team, family, and friends to climb aboard the “Bus of Hope.” Jim and Melissa would not give up on their daughter’s recovery.

The challenges of Rachel’s illness and recovery have tested the Reids’ faith in life, God, and each other. Rachel is now a thriving 15 year old; Jim and Melissa will celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary in October. Rachel endured multiple surgeries, hospitalizations, procedures, and therapies. She uses a wheelchair and has special needs. Throughout Rachel’s life, Jim has always worked hard at being a provider in his long career in manufacturing, his culinary talents in the kitchen, and his artistic efforts as a woodworker. Above all, his love for family is evident in everything he does.

We hope and pray for longevity and quality of life. Jim is working on recuperation and recovery, following the courageous example set by his daughter. He longs to return to a life of energy and abundance.

The Reid family requires financial support for Jim and Rachel’s medical needs. Funds raised will also allow for their transition into a house better suited for Rachel’s many physical demands and provide long-term financial security for Rachel.

The Reids embrace life—the good, the bad, the impossible—with love and hope. They have long inspired everyone blessed enough to be riders on the Bus of Hope. Please join us in giving back to this truly amazing family who does so much for others. We’re building a bigger bus: climb aboard!!