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 On May 16, 2026, our world changed overnight.


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 Jim’s 23-year-old son, Andy, became critically ill and was ultimately diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks the nerves. Within days, Andy became completely paralyzed and could no longer walk and eventually could not breathe on his own.


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 Andy was initially treated at Monmouth Medical Center before beginning rehabilitation at Encompass. Just as everyone hoped he was moving in the right direction, he suffered a devastating setback and was readmitted to Monmouth Medical. After improving enough to return to rehabilitation, Andy experienced another serious regression and was transferred to the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, where specialists could provide the advanced care he desperately needed.


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 Since becoming ill, Andy has endured intensive care, rehabilitation, frightening setbacks, and unimaginable challenges. His two life-threatening regressions have been painful reminders that recovery from GBS is rarely a straight path. His fight is far from over, and he continues to need every bit of support and encouragement.


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 As any parent would, Jim has spent countless days traveling back and forth to Philadelphia and staying at the hospital to be with his son, advocate for his care, and support him through every step of this journey. Being present for Andy has meant time away from work, turning down gigs, and absorbing the growing costs of travel, tolls, gas, parking, meals <span>and other unexpected expenses.</span>
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 Anyone who knows Jim knows that music has always been a huge part of his life. It has also created a special bond between him and Andy. They didn’t always agree on the playlist, but Andy loved coming out to watch his dad perform, and music became one more way they connected. Jim can’t wait for the day Andy is back in the audience—and can begin learning to play the guitar Jim gave him for his birthday.


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 Today, we humbly ask our community of family, friends, colleagues, and fellow musicians to come together for Andy and Jim as they navigate this incredibly difficult journey.


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 This fundraiser is intended to ease some of the financial burden so Jim can continue focusing on what matters most: being there for Andy.


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 Your generosity will help with:


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<li>Lost income while Jim cares for Andy

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<li>Travel to and from Philadelphia, including gas, tolls, and parking

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<li>Meals during hospital stays

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<li>Andy’s needs during and after his long recovery

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<li>The many unexpected expenses associated with a prolonged illness

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 If you’re unable to donate, we completely understand. We ask only that you consider sharing Andy’s story or taking a few moments to learn about Guillain-Barré Syndrome. Before this happened, many of us had never heard of GBS, yet it can change a family’s life in an instant.


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 To learn more about GBS and support awareness, please visit the GBS | CIDP Foundation International (<a href="https://www.gbs-cidp.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"></a><a href="https://www.gbs-cidp.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><a href="https://www.gbs-cidp.org" target="_blank" class="" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://www.gbs-cidp.org</a></a>)⁠.


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 Whether you donate, share Andy’s story, or simply send positive thoughts and encouragement, every act of kindness means the world to Andy, Jim, and everyone who loves them.


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Anonymous

Jason Mattia

Keith Rella

Kevin Sullivan

Denise Stillwell

Heather Balczarek

Christina Vargas

Nicole Sanzio

Gary Mazzaroppi

Ruben Romero

Scott Robert Avidon

Radam Schwartz

Scott Hanley

meaghan tyndale

Supporting Andy’s recovery by helping Jim remain by his side

Supporting Andy’s recovery by helping Jim remain by his side

Still $5,270 to go. Help us build momentum.