Blair and Emily Parks

This GoFundMe was started to help Blair and Emily Parks in Spokane, WA.

On Thursday, December 15th, Blair was transported to the hospital with very serious symptoms immediately following a chiropractor adjustment. After testing and imaging, he was diagnosed with a right cerebellar ischemic stroke - caused by damage/interruption of blood flow in an artery leading to the brain. Imaging has shown a tear in an artery and a significant stroke in the cerebellum, which maintains balance and controls motor function. We are so thankful Blair has been able to communicate, has taken a few assisted steps, knows the basics of what's going on around him, and has made progress in his recovery so far. As more details are known and the swelling goes down, he should be able to start physical and/or occupational therapy. After being in ICU since Thursday, he was moved to the neuro unit on December 17 but has been in surgery now today in an attempt to relieve pressure from swelling in his brain, and will return to ICU after surgery. We also remember his wife Emily and their three little children as they support Blair and his recovery during this time! It is unknown when he will be able to drive or go to work, and we pray this fund will be able to help them cover medical expenses and bridge the gap in income. We thank God that Blair is still with us today and are grateful to everyone for their support, thoughts, and prayers especially during this Christmas season!

Our heartfelt thanks, from the families of Blair and Emily

Update (12/19): Blair had surgery yesterday (Sunday) to try relieve swelling on his brain. They removed a portion of his skull and placed a drain. He is back in ICU, currently sedated and intubated to allow his brain to rest and heal. This morning they let him come to for a short while - he was able to follow commands, move his limbs and give a thumbs up before they sedated him again. Keep sending your prayers!

Update (12/20):  Blair's surgery to drain fluid and reduce swelling went well, and CT/MRI imaging post-op has also been good. Breathing tubes came out yesterday, and he has been able to eat and talk today. He is responding well to questions when he is awake, though still sleeping/resting a lot. He can move his arms and legs, and they may try to start some therapy and moving around more yet today. He is expected to remain in ICU for a few more days to wait for his brain to take over the fluid absorption and the drain can come out following that. He has shown his humor and personality too, and it is good to see a little smile on his face! We sure have been feeling the support and love from everyone and are so grateful!

Update (12/22): Blair had a solid rest day yesterday (Wednesday) with no visitors, as there was some arterial bleeding. Seemed to be needed for him! He is sitting up in a chair today, eating, had some jokes to share, and was so happy to video chat with the kiddos. Therapy is expected to start tomorrow. Thank you everyone for remembering us!

Update (12/24): Blair started occupational and physical therapy yesterday (Friday), and was able to stand for a little while. He was chatty and positive, did well with drawing / writing, and had a good day of visiting! Today has been another step forward - Blair said he feels even better today than he did yesterday. His EVD (external ventricular drain) got moved up, meaning it's draining well and his brain is starting to take over the healing and fluid absorption. Another CT scan is scheduled for Monday, and if all looks good the drain can be clamped / taken out and he should be able to transfer out of ICU to the neuro floor again by Monday or Tuesday. We are feeling grateful on this Christmas Eve!

Update (12/27): Blair's CT scan looked good yesterday (Monday), his EVD (drain) was removed, and he was transferred from ICU to the neuro floor! He has been up and walking a little, playing games, using his phone, and visiting whenever he can. From Blair - "It is always nice to be remembered but especially at a time where it is needed the most. So thankful for everyone who has helped!"

Update (12/30): Blair has made it home from the hospital! His movement and vision continues to improve, though it's slow going for even basic tasks. He has restrictions for at least the first 6-8 weeks and hoping to start outpatient PT and OT soon at St. Luke's. It will be a long slow recovery but his doctors are optimistic that he'll have no deficits in the long run as his brain heals and recovers through therapies. Thank you for continuing to remember us as we navigate the next chapter in his recovery.