My name is Woody Hosler and I'm raising funds for my friend, and Jiu Jitsu student, Todd Pulatie.

On November 11, 2022, Todd suffered a major pontine stroke, resulting in a diagnosis of “locked in” syndrome, meaning that he was conscious, but had control and movement with only his eyes. Todd has remained hospitalized since his stroke, but he is defying the odds and fighting every day to make improvements in his ability to move and communicate.

Despite his original prognosis, Todd has worked tirelessly with his therapists, regaining meaningful movement with his left arm & leg, movement with his head/neck, having his tracheotomy tube removed, saying his name and “I love you”, standing with considerable assistance, and many more notable moments. Todd's family is doing its best to prepare themselves for his return home, where they will be primarily responsible for his continued recovery and therapy.

With his transition back home there will be a significant number of needs that won’t be covered by insurance. His family is hoping to get him an offroad wheelchair; a lift to get him into, and out of, their Jeep; and continued support services from therapists to ensure the best possible quality of life when he comes home.

All proceeds from this fundraiser will go directly to Todd’s family to assist with these expenses moving forward. Todd’s wife and children have stepped up tremendously to tackle the new challenges in their lives and we’re hoping that our community can step up to support them as well.

Todd is a father of four who is extremely active in our local community. He has coached youth soccer, chaired the board of our local charter school, and volunteered regularly for community concerts in the park. After years as a stay-at-home dad, Todd recently returned to complete his bachelor’s degree and was working toward obtaining a graduate degree in counseling while working for Siskiyou County Behavioral Health at the time of his stroke.

Todd is also a veteran who took up Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in 2019 at the age of 53. During his journey, he lost 65 lbs and worked as hard as anybody in the gym. He got his sons Keith and Cayden involved as well, and they become a consistent part of the 6am crew. Todd commitment to Jiu Jitsu wasn’t just on the mats, he was a consistent supporter of our fundraisers for the WeDefy Foundation, which provides support to combat disabled veterans through Jiu Jitsu. Please join us in supporting our Jiu Jitsu brother, and his family, during this time of need.