Chip Baldridge Medical Fund

I am writing this on behalf of my brother, Chip.  Chip is married to his wife, Lori, and is father of one and stepfather to three, two of which are still at home and one is away at college.  Chip has been  working for the same company for many years as has his wife in her career.  Chip has faced many, many health problems over the years all the way from shoulder surgery to what is going to be the most important so far, a spinal fusion, tomorrow 10/15.  This will be his 13th invasive surgery.

Earlier this year alone, Chip has had two attacks of pancreatitis.  The second attack was far more severe and resulted in a hospital stay lasting several days and then additional recovery time at home.  Of course, he was unable to work as well.  His employer and co-workers were so great to help out during this time. 

Chip has lived with chronic back pain for several years and in recent months, it has grown increasingly difficult to continue his day to day routine.  He has managed to continue working but with great difficulty.  The time finally came when something had to be done.  A few weeks ago he had a procedure called a Microdiscectomy.  It was hoped that this procedure would buy some time before a spinal fusion would have to be done.  The procedure was completed.  However, Chip's pain continued and became even more elevated including a mind-numbing headache.  A return trip to the doctor discovered that there had been more damage since the surgery which occurs in about 10% of patients.  Additionally, it was discovered that there is a leak in the sheath surrounding his spinal cord allowing fluid and blood to drain out pooling and creating the pressure causing the headache.  If this alone were allowed to go untreated, it could prove fatal.  So tomorrow is the big day to get these issues addressed.  It is not known yet whether or not he will require any physical therapy. It will change the way he is able to move around permanently.  For example, he will not be able to bend over. We understand, at this time, that he will be unable to work for at least a matter of months.

I would first like to ask for your prayers for him and his family.  This is going to be a challenging time for them.  Secondly, I would ask for any assistance that might be possible.  I am hoping that this would relieve some of the stress of mounting medical bills and living expenses while he is unable to work.  Thank you for taking the time to read this....it is very much appreciated!  God bless....