Our lives changed forever in January 2026. No one expects sudden paralysis instead of traveling in retirement — but that is exactly what my wife, Patricia Ann Foster, is facing.

After decades of hard work, Patricia retired at 63 in October 2025. She was so excited for this new chapter. Her plans were simple and joyful: traveling around Indiana, visiting general stores and historic towns with her closest friend, Victoria.

Then she began experiencing weakness in her legs. Within three weeks, when it was discovered she had a herniated disc and she was rushed into emergency surgery. When she woke up, Patricia was paralyzed from the waist down. Two weeks later, she endured a second surgery in hopes of restoring function, but it was unsuccessful.

Today, Patricia has very limited feeling in her legs. While we celebrate the small victories — like the occasional wiggle of her toes — she has lost all control of her bladder and bowel functions. We have been told this is her permanent condition.

We are still waiting to learn the full extent of the medical bills. But we already know this: the basic equipment and supplies she now needs to live each day are far beyond what we can afford. The financial strain alone is threatening to overwhelm us.

Our immediate needs include:

A wheelchair

A wheelchair-accessible van

A ramp installed at our home

A hospital bed

Major renovations to make our home wheelchair accessible

Converting a first-floor bedroom to meet her needs

Ongoing medical supplies

A full-time caregiver while I am at work

I am still working, and my employer has been incredibly supportive. But Patricia now requires full-time care and assistance. The weight of this new reality — physically, emotionally, and financially — is enormous.

This is not the retirement we planned.

If you are able to give, we are deeply grateful. If you cannot give financially, please consider sharing our story and praying for Patricia as we navigate this unexpected and difficult chapter.