Help Dakota Heal: Fighting for His Life, One Day at a Time

Our dear friend Dakota is in the fight of his life.

At just 33 years old, Dakota has been diagnosed with advanced cirrhosis of the liver, triggered by a rare and severe bowel obstruction that caused dangerous internal backup—first into his stomach, and now into his liver and kidneys. This unimaginable turn of events has left him incredibly weak, fragile, and entirely dependent on daily assistance.

Dakota currently weighs only 90 lbs. He’s lost nearly all muscle strength, relies on a wheelchair, and needs help with basic daily tasks like getting in and out of bed, showering, and using the restroom. While medication is being used to manage symptoms, Dakota’s best chance for recovery—and survival—is a liver transplant.

In the meantime, he’s facing a long and painful road: months of treatment, relearning how to walk, and regaining strength he’s lost. Through all of this, Dakota remains hopeful, fighting every day with the support of his devoted mother, Janiece, who is working two jobs to keep them afloat while also being his full-time caregiver.

They’re currently between housing situations and desperately need help securing a stable, safe environment for Dakota’s recovery. While Janiece works, they also need funds to afford a care provider to stay with Dakota during the day so he’s never left alone in his condition.

Before this nightmare, Dakota was a vibrant, funny, and active guy with a deep love for fishing—something he learned from his dad. He’s not ready to give up. He still dreams of standing on a riverbank again one day, rod in hand, muscles strong, and heart full.

But to get there, he needs us.

Please consider donating to help cover:

Any amount—no matter how small—makes a difference. If you’re not in a position to give, sharing this fundraiser with your network means the world.

Let’s help Dakota find hope, healing, and strength again!