A Husband, a Father, and a Fight for Time

My name is Charleesa, and my heart is completely broken. My husband, Leighton, is currently in the ICU at OSU, fighting for his life. For years, he has battled liver disease, but the toxins have built up to a point where they have reached his brain, causing severe swelling. He is unresponsive and on life support. The doctors have warned us that time is not on our side.

My husband is not just a patient; he is the most incredible stay-at-home dad to our two beautiful children, both of whom are on the autism spectrum. He is their world. They are used to him being their constant, their playmate, and their rock. Now, our home feels so empty, and they are confused and heartbroken, missing the dad who was always there for them.

My deepest wish is to be at his side, holding his hand, and being his strength, but the financial burden is overwhelming. The hospital bills are already piling up, and finding specialized care for our children is proving to be a challenge. We plan to use the funds to stay near the hospital so we don't have to waste precious moments driving to a from everyday. These funds will also help provide child care with specialized individuals that are trained and skilled when it comes to handling children on the Specturm. We want to stay near him as much as possible so that we can be close to him and visit as much as we possibly can.

Every donation, no matter how small, would give us the gift of time. It would allow me to be present for my husband without the crushing worry of finances. It would give our kids the chance to see their dad, to say goodbye if we have to, and to know that we did everything we could.