Elderly Man Attacked by Pit Bulls

Gladstone Alexander Simon, 84, of St. Croix, Virgin Islands is fortunate to be alive after a horrific attack by five pit bulls in his backyard on September 4, 2019. The wild dogs belong to a next door neighbor, who had been instructed many times to properly secure the dogs because of the animals' aggressive behavior and a history of attacks involving other families in the small community. 

Gladstone was airlifted to a Trauma Center in Puerto Rico on September 5 and has undergone multiple surgeries, received several blood transfusions and endured a host of other painful procedures. Family members from Maryland have been taking turns traveling to Puerto Rico, which does not give Gladstone the family continuity needed to properly advocate for his care. Therefore, the family is looking to transfer Gladstone to a local hospital for further treatment where he can be surrounded by the love and support of his wife, adult children and grandchildren. A doctor in Maryland has agreed to take on the continuation of Gladstone's care.

The challenge, however, is that doctors in Puerto Rico will not allow Gladstone's transfer to another hospital through commercial airlines. An air ambulance is required due to Gladstone's extensive, open wounds and risk of exposure.  These medical flights are extremely expensive  ranging from $40,000 to $250,000 depending on patient needs. 

The family is hoping that by sharing their story, they can prevent others from experiencing the same senseless tragedy. Any funds donated are greatly appreciated and will be used towards the transport of the beneficiary from the Trauma Center in Puerto Rico to the Maryland hospital that has accepted the case, as well as other ongoing medical related expenses.