Help Greg Walk Again!
On October 8, 2020, Greg Discher suffered a fall in his home which left him paralyzed. Greg had been hospitalized in August 2020 for a simple surgical procedure after which he developed septic shock and his health drastically declined. Greg spent 3 weeks at a rehab facility regaining the strength the septic shock had taken from him. The shock specifically stayed within his legs, making it very difficult for him to walk. Greg came home in October 2020 but was only home a few short days when the accident happened. Greg stood up to use his walker, became dizzy and fainted. As Greg collapsed, he struck his head and snapped his neck, leaving him paralyzed.
Greg had to have an emergency spinal fusion to relieve the pressure on his spine/vertebrae. He’s been in and out of at least 10 different facilities and the hospital since then. Greg is currently under the care of a wonderful team at St. Mary’s Rehab in Cherry Hill, NJ.
While Greg has made tremendous progress, he still has a way to go. COVID-19 precautions have caused some delays and setbacks in Greg's progress. For 3.5 months, Greg needed the assistance of a ventilator to breathe but is now breathing on his own! He also no longer needs a feeding tube and can eat on his own. Greg can move his arms from side-to-side but will need upper body occupational therapy to be able to lift his arms. Greg can now move his legs and has already been able to stand up.
Greg and Diane - his wonderful wife/life partner of more than 20 years - have done their best to fund Greg's treatment but are now in need of help. In order for Greg to continue to progress, we need to help them raise funds for his continued therapy as well as some renovations to his home to make it handicapped-accessible. The bathroom renovations alone are estimated to cost $9,300 and will commence in mid-May. Greg will need continued in-patient therapy and eventually at-home therapy as well as supplies.
Greg is an amazing man with a huge heart who has spent his entire life serving his community, and now is our chance to give back to him. Greg is known as a kind, generous, and charitable friend - whenever anyone needs him, he’s there. He loves to help his neighbors by pet sitting and giving them rides when needed.
Greg has been a member of Deer Park Fire Co. in Cherry Hill, NJ since 1986. He was a volunteer firefighter with Deer Park until 1994. Greg's ideas were the catalyst for the current Rehab 13 operations after he proposed the idea in 2003 - Deer Park then became known as Rehab 13 in 2004, providing rehab services to firefighters, police, EMTs, and other emergency personnel in five South Jersey counties, "Serving Those Who Serve." Greg is currently a contributing member, life member, former active member, and former trustee of Deer Park. No one loves Christmas as much as Greg! He loves to play Santa Claus and could be seen waving from the fire truck at Christmastime for many years!
Greg has also served with the Cherry Hill Fire Police for over 10 years. He has been a member of the American Legion - Sons of the Legionnaires for over 30 years; Greg's father served in the military. Greg has proudly served in the Legion's honor guard. For 20 years Greg worked at the Little Servant Sisters of the Immaculate Conception's annual Polish festival in Cherry Hill - he's looking forward to enjoying their homemade pierogies once again!
Don't forget about the Mummers! Greg has been a member of the South Philly Vikings Mummers Club - Fancy Brigade for over 30 years.
Greg grew up in Cherry Hill, NJ and now resides with his wife and beloved dog, Stevie, in Bellmawr, NJ. From 1982 until 2001, Greg worked as a shipper/receiver for RCA in Deptford, NJ. He then worked at Stonhard Flooring and Tiling Company in Maple Shade, NJ.
Greg is also a 9-year cancer survivor. In 2012 he was diagnosed with esophageal cancer. Greg is never one to be defeated with his constant cheerfulness, his strong faith in God, and the steadfast devotion and loving support of his wife Diane, family, and friends. Greg never asks, “Why me?” Diane recalled when Greg was diagnosed with cancer he said, “Why NOT me? Somebody had to get it, and I’m gonna beat it!”
Please consider donating to help Greg walk again! Any amount will be greatly appreciated. Whether or not you are financially able to contribute, please keep Greg and Diane in your prayers as they continue to navigate this challenging journey. Thank you from Greg, Diane, Stevie, their family and friends, and Greg's extended family in the fire services, American Legion, and the Mummers!
Greg at Deer Park Fire Co./Rehab 13
Greg and his wife, Diane, at Magee in March.
Greg dressed as a Mummer in 2019.
Greg loves being Santa Claus!
Greg doing what he does best - hanging out with the nuns from Little Servant Sisters!
Greg (far left) doing what he loves best - serving as an honor guard at Locustwood cemetery in Cherry Hill for the American Legion!!..
Greg relaxing after Memorial day ceremonies last year at American Legion.
Greg during his stay at Magee in March.
Greg during his stay at Magee in March.
Greg leaving Acuity for Magee in February.
On the 6th floor at Magee, Greg getting some well needed fresh air in April.
Greg with one of the therapy dogs, Nigel, at Magee in April.
Greg and his wife Diane at Magee.
Greg at the American Legion last year.
Greg when he first started therapy in Cooper hospital last October.
