Coins for Cruze

February 10th, 2018 is a day the Waddell family will never forget.  Heather and Mitch were awaken by their son's cries, and discovered that he was suddenly unable to walk or stand, and couldn't grip items with his hands.  They rushed Cruze immediately to the closest hospital, where they watched their healthy, happy 2 year old son deteriorate before their eyes.  The next two days were filled with unimaginable worry and heartache as Cruze endured emergency testing/treatment at 3 different hospitals before inevitably being flown to Pennsylvania.  Cruze was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit at Pittsburg Children's Hospital on February 12th, where a large team of physicians, surgeons, residents, students, and physical therapists have been collaborating on various treatments to alleviate his symptoms and extensive testing to identify the exact cause of his illness.  Thus far, Cruze has been diagnosed with Transverse Myelitis which caused paralysis.  His condition is slowly improving with aggressive treatments and therapy, but the road ahead will be long and challenging.  The medical team expects the weeks-months ahead to initially require hospital treatment/recovery, and then rehabilitation in Pittsburg thereafter.  Every bit of improvement is monumental in Cruze's recovery.
As a friend of the Waddells, I have started Coins for Cruze as an effort to alleviate the financial hardships that will accumulate during this medical journey.  With apx 300miles between them, the travel expenses can become quickly overwhelming as Heather and Mitch provide for Cruze's treatments while supporting their other children at home.  Any amount (large or small) contributed to Coins for Cruze will be greatly appreciated, and the Waddells will have sole access to all donations made.  I encourage you to leave words of inspiration for this family in the comment section, and please keep them in your prayers throughout this journey.   Blessings to all!