
Support Drake Family's Emergency Needs
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I have never wanted to reach out for help but don't see any other way to save my family.
We are the Drake Family, and we find ourselves in need of assistance. To be completely honest, I've never created a GoFundMe for myself before; I've only donated to others in need, so this feels quite uncomfortable. Recently, our 12-year-old son Dakota underwent emergency hip surgery. For the past month, he had been experiencing leg pain and had fallen multiple times, leading us to believe it was just a sprain or muscle strain. Last Monday, however, he was in tears from the pain, prompting us to seek medical help. After numerous X-rays, we were told he needed to be airlifted to Cook Children's Hospital in Fort Worth. The diagnosis was Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (Skiffy), meaning his hip bone had come out of the socket and was detaching from the femur. The doctors stressed the urgency of surgery within 24 hours. We opted against air transport but promised to leave first thing in the morning, driving four hours from San Angelo to Fort Worth. Dakota was instructed not to put weight on his right leg and left the doctor's office with crutches. Unfortunately, during a pit stop, he slipped on a wet floor and fell directly onto his right hip. Upon arriving at Cook Children's Hospital, which is truly exceptional, Dakota underwent further evaluations and imaging. We finally met with the pediatric orthopedic surgeon, who explained the situation and how they would proceed by inserting two screws into the ball joint. He also informed us that the likelihood of this occurring on the left side was nearly 100%, so they would also add screws there. As he discussed recovery, we learned that Dakota would be confined to a wheelchair for at least two to 6 months and would need to avoid any pressure on his right leg during that time. He will require check-ups every two weeks for the next 9 to 12 months to monitor his growth plates closely and then once a month until he is done growing. Additionally, all of his childhood dreams of being a football player,soldier, motorcross star etc are al.ost completely out of reach now as the doctors say 4 to 6 years no impact or contact sports and the surgery tyoe will deny military interest a reality we're still processing. Wagching your child try and grasp this is more painful then anything.The moment came when Dakota was to be sedated, which was one of the most challenging experiences I've faced. Three hours later, we were with him in recovery, and thankfully, the surgery went well with two incisions—one on each leg. It was time to embrace the new path ahead and stay strong for Dakota, who was clearly fearful and uncertain about what lay next. In previous years, we would have navigated this without seeking help, but our business has struggled over thee years due to a lack of access to water—something essential for running a golf course. We have lost our home, vehicles, credit etc We simply dont have the means right now for the medical bills, transportation, lodging and all of the expenses that have come from this. I'm trying to hold everything together and provide for everyone, but I'm running out of options. Many know me for my generous spirit; and to be honest it is very hard forn me to be in the position of asking fir help as i am the one who helps when needed. I cant tell you the amount of failure i feel right now. If you can assist, I would be eternally grateful and cannot express how much it would mean to me. If you're unable to help but could offer a prayer for us, I would appreciate that just as much.
Organizer
Matt Drake
Organizer
San Angelo, TX