Donate to Gabriel's Medical and Family Expenses

For 12 days, Gabriel has been battling a severe illness initially resembling the flu or bronchitis, which progressed into a challenging infection. Characteristically, Gabriel continued to prioritize commitments to loved ones and children despite

his condition. However, on September 30, 2024

, increased pain and ambulatory difficulties prompted emergency intervention. Upon evaluation, Gabriel's kidney function and white blood cell count raised concerns, necessitating surgical action. Following his initial surgery, Gabriel faces additional procedures throughout the week. As the sole provider, his current inability to work coincides with Emily's critical final weeks in her graduate program, requiring her to adjust her workload and caregiving responsibilities. Gabriel will have additional surgeries later this week, with a 2-3 week hospital admission. All sounds will go towards monthly and medical expenses for Gabriel and the family.

Updates to follow throughout the week.

10/25/2024 Update:

Gabriel will be transferring to Vibra. It is on the 7th floor of Sanford so not a big move but it will provide rehab services until he's able to go home. The wound vac today was not able to be completed without IV medications and pain management isn't where we hoped it would be before discharge. We are not sure how long he will be at Vibra or if he is confirmed to transfer there. They are checking insurance to make sure they will pay, and they said sometimes insurance will let people stay 7 days others 6 months. It’s dependent on insurance and his treatment plan after he is transferred.

At this time we re-share the Gofund me as this limits my ability to work full time and Gabriel's ability to return to work. We are thankful for all those who have donated and continue to support our family. If you would like to donate via V-enmo that is an option as well.

Mine is Emily-R-Garza

Gabriel's is Gabriel-Garza-30

Thank you, as we merge one step closer to being home together.

10/12 another incision site was made to make sure the infection is completely cleared out. Gabriel's in alot of pain today, and this will result in another week's hospital stay.

10/13 Gabriel headed back to the OR early this morning at about 8A

Update 10/02/2024

Gabriel underwent his third surgical procedure this morning (10-2-24), which lasted approximately one hour. The medical team successfully opened, drained, cleaned, and packaged the infected areas. Following anesthesia, he recovered well without complications. Although he returned to his room at Sanford, mobilization with assistance was not feasible today. We are hopeful he will be up and walking in the coming days. The unexpected surgery was necessary, and we remain optimistic about further progress tomorrow. His kidney function has improved, his white blood count is down, and the infection has not spread any further as of today. Further surgical interventions will continue as it will focus on opening, draining, cleaning, and packaging the infected area until a wound vacuum can be surgically applied. We are deeply grateful for the generous donations received, which have evoked profound gratitude and emotion. Our sincere appreciation extends to each of you.

I have been asked a few times if Gabriel has his phone, he does! He typically is short with his responses as he has had IVs in both hands to receive fluids and IV antibiotics. I have noticed he's more available to text or call after 7:30P when I take the kids home for the night. I have updated him with each donation and name, and he has shed many tears of gratitude.

Written with love,

Emily Garza

October 4, 2024

Updates as of 3:30PM

Gabriel underwent surgery this morning at 11. The surgery today was unexpected but was due to concerns regarding his blood work. The team here acted prompting to seek expert evaluation of the infection and put "fresh eyes" on the infection. He is currently experiencing a huge amount of pain, elevated blood pressure, and requires 2L of oxygen and two sodium IV bags, along with IV fluids. Additional pain medication have been administered, and we are hoping they help him relax. We are currently waiting for the surgical team's rounds to address our questions and provide a thorough understanding of Gabriel's surgery, and labs. Today's procedure was the longest and most complex yet, which was his fourth surgical intervention as of Monday.

October 8, 2024 - Day 8 Update

We are deeply grateful for the overwhelming support we have received thus far. The generosity extends from meals delivered to our home and the hospital, thoughtful messages, assistance with childcare, gift cards, and Uncle Hoang's dedication to staying overnight with Gabriel at the hospital.

Gabriel's condition appears to be on the up and up. Following six surgeries last week, he is scheduled for another procedure tomorrow. These surgeries are medically necessary due to the wound's size. The surgical team continues to monitor for infection, drain, clean, and flush the wound. Once his condition improves, Gabriel will receive two wound vacs, marking a significant step toward recovery and returning home. Currently, aside from bathroom visits, Gabriel remains largely bedridden, focusing on increasing protein intake, consuming meals, and maintaining strength.

Until the wound enters the healing phase with no signs of the infection spreading, the treatment plan remains as is. This means regular wet to dry dressing changes, flush outs, and observation in the OR and bedside.

We appreciate your ongoing support and everything this far!

Sincerely, Emily.