Help for Dean Roell and his family

Hello, I’m Jen and I am a family friend of the Roell’s. Many have asked how they can help with what is happening with Dean.

In September, Dean under went a surgery to remove a ganglion cyst that was growing on the peroneal nerve of his right leg. It was growing rapidly and starting to follow the nerve up to the sciatic. If it reached the sciatic Dean would have lost full function of his leg in a few years. The surgery was deemed a success and a month later he was released to go back to work.

Two days later, after a few ambulance rides he underwent emergency surgery for infection (Staphylococcus Aureus) MSSA that had been sitting in his knee & cyst pocket for 4 weeks from the surgery. By this time, the infection had gone to his blood and bone. His 2nd surgery for infection clean-out happened a week later.

Dean was released from the hospital with a picc line and into the care of Home Health. Currently, a Home Health Nurse comes and has taught his wife Naomi how to administer his antibiotics. His Cefazolin antibiotics are given every 8 hours through his picc line for the treatment of septic arthritis.

Unfortunately, after 4 weeks of these infusions, Dean is not turning the corner like the doctors and we had all hoped! This type of infection is extremely hard to treat. His lab results are trending in the wrong direction and the doctors are concerned that the infection is hiding in the bone and are hoping it hasn’t moved to other bones or joints. A third knee and leg clean out surgery will be needed soon and a bone MRI has been ordered this week to prepare for this surgery. There is a long road ahead as Dean is non weight bearing at this time.

Family Background:

Dean is a heavy equipment operator with the Operating Engineers local 139. His wife Naomi, has a neurological muscular disability and they have two sons. Their oldest Preston, is a 1st year apprentice as a heavy equipment operator with the Operating Engineers local 139 and Grayson is a senior at Middleton High School.

I know they are so thankful for the meals, calls, texts, prayers, and good vibes sent their way. Many have asked how to help and this is another way we can help them.

The money raised will cover direct medical costs, daily expenses, and help with the financial burden and stress on their family. We know the Roell family has had such a positive effect on the community and we hope we can give back to them. We thank you in advance for your donation and all the love sent their way.

As we go forward, I will update this page with updates on Dean’s medical journey.