When I got the call that my brother Pat was in the hospital, I assumed it was because of his Type 1 Diabetes. Not to say that I wasn't worried, but it wasn't unheard of over the last 20 years.

Unfortunately, this was not a normal fall.

Patrick tripped (cause unknown) in the home he shares with our youngest brother and fell against a hard table. He broke his skull clean open, and pieces of the bone caused an internal brain bleed, leading to seizures. He seized so forcefully that he broke several ribs and his scapula.

Somehow, he managed to get off a call to our brother, who called emergency services. When the paramedics arrived, he was acting so erratically that he had to be forcefully restrained as he had sustained so much damage that he was unable to behave rationally. Upon arriving at the hospital and undergoing 5 hours of surgery, our mother and family were told we should be prepared for the worst.

That was 5 weeks ago, and today Pat is on the path to recovery. No longer in danger of dying, he is on a long road to relearning how to walk, talk, and take care of himself independently. While we are all overjoyed that he is going to recover, the hospital stay, upcoming rehabilitation, and continuing daily living expenses are a source of stress that he doesn't need while he focuses on recovery.

That is where you can help.

Patrick has made an impression on every part of his life, from being a loyal friend, a devoted son, and an active dog parent. We, his friends and family, want to ensure that he has the best care we can find, for as long as he needs it; that he gets the help and equipment recommended by his medical team; and that he can continue to support his other obligations and restart his life without this time hanging about his neck.

Thank you all for your kindness.