I would like to start off by saying I can’t fathom the fact that I even have to create this fundraiser. I’ve had so many people tell me I needed to create one but I couldn’t bring myself to do it. Reality has set in and this is my last resort in an attempt to keep my family afloat. Here’s our story…

On January 30, my husband had 3 herniated discs removed and a fusion on level C5, C6, and C7 in his neck. The surgeon called me after surgery and said everything went smoothly and he’s headed to recovery. About 20 minutes later he called me back and said “he’s not moving his arms and legs like he should be, we are going to do an emergency MRI and see what’s going on.” From that moment on it has been a complete whirlwind. Brad had no movement in his arms and legs. The doctors were baffled and could not figure out what went wrong or how to fix it. He was immediately admitted to the ICU. About 14 hours post surgery he regained function of his arms and legs. The team of doctors that were working on him were amazed and called it a miracle. Although he regained function, he was in an immense amount of pain and very weak. On February 5, they sent him to intense inpatient rehab. He spent the next several weeks working hard everyday to regain his strength. He was discharged home on March 2 with a walker and a wheelchair. The plan was to continue outpatient therapy. Over the course of the next week and a half we were all learning how to navigate this new way of life. His walking capabilities were minimal and he spent most of his time in his wheelchair or recliner. Therapists and nurses immediately started treating him at home. Things weren’t great but they were getting better. Then on March 12, only about a week and a half after being home, out of nowhere he lost complete function again. Immediately took him to the ER and more scans were done trying to figure out the problem. After 2 days in the ICU they came to the conclusion the next best option was another surgery. This time they went through the back of his neck and removed a piece of bone so that his spinal cord had more room to breathe. Surgery went well and he is slowly starting to regain strength. Once again he will be admitted to intensive inpatient therapy for the next several weeks. Nobody can guarantee that he will ever be back to what we knew as normal, but we have faith he is going to kick this in the butt and come out stronger than ever!

Needless to say, he is currently not receiving any source of income during this trying time. We have four children at home; 17, 14, 9, and 4. I am trying my best to support us financially. Prior to Brad having this second surgery, I found a second job however due to these unexpected circumstances I am not sure when I’ll be able to start. My priority is to keep my vehicle, our home, and put food on the table. We greatly appreciate any help that you’re willing to give!