
Todd DeWaard's Stroke Recovery Fund
Donation protected
Todd's Sister-in-law, Katey, is setting up this GoFundMe on behalf of the family, in order to raise funds to cover expenses while Todd works toward a full recovery from his stroke. Both Todd and his wife, Kim, are unable to work at this time.
Here's the backstory...
On December 8th, Todd was taking his beloved yellow lab, Mazie, for a walk on the trail near their house, when he suffered a massive stroke. Luckily, Mazie never left his side, and her light up collar led his son, Josh and wife, Kim straight to him once they realized he had been gone an unusually long time. Thankfully, they were able to find him and get him help within two hours, which is just within the window to reverse and reduce the damage done to his brain.
After being rushed to the hospital, it was determined he had two blood clots in his brain and suffered a major, life threatening stroke. Fortunately, the surgeon was able to remove one clot completely, but could not entirely clear out the second clot.
Todd spent three days in the ICU and then moved to a rehabilitation facility. The family was told he actually had multiple strokes affecting three areas of his brain. The doctor said he would never regain functional use of his right hand and his right leg would be weak for the rest of his life.
Remarkably, within a week of having the stroke he was moving his right hand and leg and even started walking with some assistance. His progress has been incredible, but he still has a long road of therapy to fully recover.
Doctors are unsure of his return to work date, and while Kim is focused on his therapy, she isn't able to work either. With no income coming in, the next weeks and months are unsettling and anxiety inducing. Any financial help would ease the worry of the future's mounting bills and would help the two of them focus on a full recovery.
Todd is a hard worker, and his identity is deeply rooted in providing for his family and getting back to the work he loves.
The family wants to thank everyone for their ongoing support and prayers. It is a tough road to walk, and they appreciate all of the love they have been shown already.
The only way this GoFundMe works is to get the word out! Please share the story and the link in your social media circles so we can get this funded and relieve this financial strain.
Organizer and beneficiary
Katey DeWaard
Organizer
Grandville, MI
Kim DeWaard
Beneficiary