In late 2020 my husband, Aaron experienced a moment where he explains his brain broke. He was at work and quickly discovered he couldn’t do his tasks for the rest of the day. Deciding his journey regarding his health, he was proactive in his choices and sought emergency medical attention.

Then Covid kept everything shut down. He went from a daily routine to nothing. During Covid he crashed even harder, as offices of any sort of medical help were closed he suffered terribly. It was hard to watch because he had just come off the Chicago Marathon in 2019 and was living his best life with our 4 kids. The following year we welcomed 2 new baby boys to our family. Aaron had to take short term leave off work.

Aaron was diagnosed with a debilitating major depressive disorder that causes him to freeze and have catatonic episodes. He doesn’t respond, can’t function and sometimes loses his recognition of where he is.

He went on long term disability in 2021 The following year he had an aborted suicide attempt. Quickly reaching back out for more intense therapies and medical help.

Since then, Aaron has been to emergency rooms, and other sorts of care. He has, multiple times tried returning to work, and has not been successful. This past July 2023 he had a terrible episode trying to walk into work and went catatonic for 45 mins frozen standing outside in the parking lot. He chose to admit himself into Pine Rest a mental hospital where he spent 7 days and 7 nights.

I have had to advocate for Aaron. I have to take care of him as if he’s a 12 yr old at times , making sure he is taking his meds, going to appointments and even doing something as simple as showering.

Due to his mental health and lack of work we are in a housing crisis. Our finances have completely plummeted leaving us facing eviction with no place to go (given he hasn’t been able to work since July so that means no income)and losing our vehicle among other essentials. We have exhausted churches, family, friends and other resources to find relief however, we are in serious need.

Along with our current bills we have inquired over $30,000 in debt. Between medical bills, his stay at the hospital and repossession of our van, and our rent, being behind for 2 yrs. Our goal is to pay off our landlord, move and take care of the bills. There is a future for Aaron, he is looking into a procedure to hopefully help curve this part of the his brain so he can live and function again. His children and I desperately need him back. He is the bread winner of our home.

Aaron as of 3 weeks ago has returned to work. He is starting to thrive , enjoying his job and finding success where he can. In 2014 he started his dream job which has kept him as an employee for the past 4 yrs fully supporting his mental health journey.

It’s a pleasure but very difficult that I get to share our story with hope of our future , the children alone deserve the best life and meeting their needs seems impossible.

Thank you so much.