Help Max Heal After Life-Saving Neck Surgeries

My Story

My medical journey began in 2004, when I was rear-ended by a drunk driver. Two damaged neck discs required surgery — but that was only the start of a long, painful road.

In 2006, the original discs failed. Surgeons went back in and replaced three discs.

In 2015, a two-story outbuilding collapsed on me and my brother. I was trapped on the first floor, suffering severe nerve damage.

By 2017, I needed a laminectomy through the back of my neck so doctors could drill and reroute nerves.

In 2022, things worsened — seven discs had deteriorated. Surgeons placed two titanium plates and two cages in my neck.

Then in 2023, a rare bone-eating bacteria attacked the hardware, spread toward my brain, and ate through my esophagus.

The Crisis in 2025

In October 2025, the same bacteria returned, causing three holes in my esophagus. On October 13th, Penn State Hershey surgeons performed three back-to-back life-saving surgeries:

The ENT team repaired the esophagus.

A neck muscle was cut and repositioned behind the esophagus for protection.

The neurosurgeon removed both titanium plates.

A GI surgeon placed a feeding tube in my stomach.

Two days later, a PICC line was inserted so I can receive IV antibiotics for 6–8 weeks. I will now require antibiotics for the rest of my life.

My Current Condition

I cannot eat or drink anything by mouth — not even swallow my own saliva.

Every medication and every calorie goes through my feeding tube.

My weight has dropped from 175 lbs to 148 lbs, along with significant muscle and strength.

Doctors say I will be unable to work for 9–12 months while recovering.

Why I Need Help

Medical expenses, supplies, medication, and uncovered costs continue to build.

The financial strain is overwhelming during a recovery that demands all my energy just to get through each day.

How You Can Make a Difference

If you’re willing, please consider:

Donating — every amount truly helps

Sharing this page with others

Praying or sending encouragement

Your support gives me hope as I fight through pain, weakness, and the long road ahead.

Thank you for standing with me through the hardest season of my life.