Ben Lowman and Family

Here is Ben's story:

Although Ben is only 43 years old and was presumably healthy, he had a sudden heart attack on Tuesday evening, August 9th. Ben and his son, Peyton, had returned home from their karate class when Ben began experiencing chest pains. Shortly after, Ben collapsed in the bathroom. Emily, his wife, immediately called 911. The paramedics had to remove the door before they could work on Ben with the defibrillator. Fortunately, the hospital is less than a mile from their house and Ben has been receiving exceptional care ever since.

When he got to the hospital, the Cath Lab immediately removed a blockage and put in 3 stents. Following the surgery, the hospital started a cooling protocol that is to protect his brain and is standard when a heart has stopped and the patient is non-responsive to the defibrillator. This cooling protocol takes time.

As of Friday morning, they began lowering the sedation and warming the body. Everyone is hoping that he will soon be able to breathe on his own and that they will be able to remove the breathing tube. Ben has opened his eyes several times, squeezed the hands of his wife (Emily) and brother (Nathan), and even tried to sit up. These are all positive signs and the doctors are "cautiously optimistic" since Ben is progressing faster than they expected. That said, we are still waiting to see if he will recover fully.

As for his sons, Peyton (12) and Desi (10), they are staying with Emily's parents as everyone tries to keep their life as normal and positive as possible.

We are hoping that Ben can return to his full normal self. Even if that happens, it will likely take several months. Since Ben is the primary source of income as a self-employed contractor, the family is facing some serious financial burdens.

What Can You Do To Help?

One of the best ways to help Ben and his family during this difficult time is to help them "keep their boat afloat" as Ben recovers.

While there is absolutely no obligation to donate, please know that any amount will be very appreciated. These donations will go directly to the family and will help alleviate some of the financial impacts of mounting medical bills and lost income.

We are hoping to have better news to report soon and will update everyone accordingly.

In the meantime, thank you for taking the time to learn more about Ben and we hope you will please keep his family and him in your thoughts and prayers.