On July 3rd, Rafael Freitas, while preparing for the 4th of July was bitten in the ankle by a very large venomous copperhead snake in an East Cobb backyard. The snake was approximately 5 feet in length (still at-large with the snakeskin found nearby). With Rafael in severe pain, his girlfriend Leslie proceeded to take him to the nearest ER as the swelling was moving up his leg. One might think that the story could end here with quick medical attention, however, please read on as it is a very long and dangerous experience that all of us should be aware of.

Rafael is still being treated in ICU at North Fulton Hospital with an Infectious Disease Expert and has received the anti-venom dose. He is currently being evaluated for cellulitis.

Rafael just accepted a new position in the industry he loves, however, his medical insurance has not yet begun so all of these medical expenses are out of pocket. He has been in the ICU for the last four days. The expert infectious disease doctor shared that it was the largest snake bite the hospital has ever seen and the amount of venom in his body is such that they want to keep him longer to monitor for cellulitis.

Even once released, Rafeal has a long road ahead of him, as he must keep his foot elevated and no weight bearing for at least two weeks. We share this story to raise awareness of how quickly this can happen as copperheads are endemic to our area and this can happen in anyone's backyard.

We are raising this GoFundMe to help Rafael with medical expenses as the anti-venom dose can cost as much as $50k itself, on top of the lengthy ICU stay. Thank you in advance for your prayers and participation in helping with this GOFUNDME for Rafael.