Derek's Journey

This is my lifelong family friend, Derek Munjak.

We all face hardships throughout the course of our life, some small, some large. Unfortunately, Derek's was almost life-ending. Over the course of the last 16 years, he's had 4 pacemakers implanted in his chest to save his life.

In February of 2025, the pacemaker he had needed to be surgically repositioned and attached to the muscle in his chest. In June of 2025, he went to the doctor to show them a lump he noticed at the incision site. He was told the lump was due to infection.

On August 1st, less than 3 weeks ago, his pacemaker was removed with all the wires and hardware. This was to give his body a chance to heal. The problem was that he needed the pacemaker in order to live. Once healed from infection and current removal, Derek will need another surgery to place a new pacemaker on the other side of his chest.

Because of this fairly unique situation, Derek must now wear an external wound machine to help suction out the infection, as well as an external pacemaker to keep his heart regulated and beating. He also has a PICC line in his arm to receive his daily medications.

At only 52 years old, Derek is unable to work to support his wife. Also help support his step-daughter Brianna and their two grandchildren.

Derek needs our support. If not by direct donations, then by sharing his GoFundMe to assist in his daily necessities, he and his family so desperately need.

Thank you all in advance for taking the time to learn about Derek's situation and for the love, compassion, and support he needs during this difficult time.

Cash app

$pdenisemathis