I've known Ross for many years, and recently many people have been asking how they can help him and his family. To understand the situation today, it helps to know a little about the road Ross has already walked.

Shortly after graduating high school, Ross was involved in a serious four-wheeler accident that broke his neck and left his left arm permanently paralyzed. He spent nine months in a neck brace and went through a long rehabilitation process. In an instant, the future he had planned was gone.

But Ross refused to accept the idea of living on disability. He pushed forward, earned his CDL, and began working—first driving dump trucks for the Oeders family and later for the Warren County Engineer's Office.

One thing that has always defined Ross is his determination. Even with a paralyzed arm, he refused to believe he couldn't accomplish things. During that time, he even built a motorcycle with his stepbrother, proving to himself that his limitations didn't define him.

Eventually, Ross took a job hauling heavy equipment for JK Excavation in Mason. After several years of learning the industry, he took a big risk and started his own excavation business. What began as a small side operation grew into a successful business built through hard work and perseverance.

Around that same time, however, Ross's health began to decline. As the years passed, the challenges he and his family faced continued to grow.

During this difficult season, Ross and his family began attending church and found a supportive community. Through everything, Ross continued to pray and believe that God would somehow open a door for him to keep providing for his family.

Last week, I reached out to Ross just to catch up. At first, he tried to brush things off, but eventually, he shared the health and financial struggles his family is currently facing. Even in the middle of it all, he kept saying he believed God would open a door.

After that conversation, the idea of organizing a community benefit to support Ross and his family felt like the right thing to do. Since then, the response has been incredible, with people reaching out asking how they can help.

Ross has always been someone who works hard, helps others, and refuses to quit no matter the obstacle. Now it's our turn as a community to show up for him and his family.

The Stevens family has always believed God would provide a way forward. Maybe this is one of the ways that happens—through a community coming together when it matters most.