Medical Treatment

Family, Friends, and Community

My nephew Jason Farrell the son of Tim Shelley was found on December 7, 2017 unresponsive in his Minooka home of an apparent heroin overdose. Jason has struggled with dependency issues for years that began with prescription drug use after a work accident. He has sought help numerous times and has tried to remain sober., but this opioid epidemic has proved to be far too big, and unfortunately, he has become one of its tragedies.

Since being found unresponsive, Jason has had many milestones as well as many set backs. He has overcome dialysis and liver failure, but is still bed ridden. He is able to breath on his own, however he is dependent upon machines for his nutritional intake. He has loss significant oxygen to his brain, and suffers from what is called anoxic brain injury. He continues to show progress, but he has a long and hard journey ahead of him.

People in Jason’s condition have seen amazing recovery with the help of oxygen therapy. Our family has found a place called Midwest Hyperbaric that provides this service. Jason also needs Botox injections in his arms, wrists, and hips to release his muscle contractions and pain. Therapy for this cannot continue without the Botox injections because there is too much tension in his muscles. Neither of these treatment options are covered by insurance, and are expensive.

Jason is someone’s son, grandson, brother, cousin, nephew, and father. You cannot put a price on the recovery of a loved one, so we are reaching out to our family, friends, and community to ask for help. We know these are tough times, so any kind of monetary donation is greatly appreciated.

Addiction is not just a moral failing, it is a chronic illness that consumes a person’s life. Thank you for taking the time to read about Jason’s story, and please send prayer and positive energy to him.