#BudStrong

Definition of Strength - 
: the quality or state of being strong
: capacity for exertion or endurance
: a strong attribute or inherent asset
: vigor of expression;
: force as measured in numbers

Have you met Justin? He has encaptured strength since he was born at 2 pounds and 10 weeks early.  He is strong. 

Bud has blessed us with a smile that lights up your soul, a vigor for life and all the extraordinary ordinary that us lesser beings take for granted: opening mail, riding a bus, swear words, jokes and laughter with family. He is strong. He gets it from hismom. 

Late Friday night, 11/20/2020, after turning out the lights and before self care in the form of ice cream and a show, my sister Jodi went to check on Bud to be sure he had fallen asleep. Looking in, a mother’s instinct settled. Something was not right. Turning on the light revealed Justin was blue. He had no heartbeat. Jodi began CPR, with Alanna and Lonnie coming to help, calling 9-1-1 and getting insulin/blood sugar supplies. As they awaited EMT arrival, Alanna performed CPR on her brother while Jodi checked his sugar. Normal. EMTs arrived and shocked him. Twice. Seconds, minutes, Eternities passed as they stabilized him enough for transfer. There was screaming and tears. And heartache. And strength. 

Justin remains on a ventilator, uncertain of what trauma was caused by the arrest and length of time without oxygen. There has been glimmers of hope.  And strength. 

Asking for those that are able to lend your support and strength to Justin, Jodi, Lonnie, and Payton, Alanna. Whether that is in the form of any size monetary contribution, prayer, or well wish.  We are #BudStrong .

Funds will be used to help pay for medical expenses not covered by insurance, and allow some financial burden to be relieved so that Jodi and family can focus on Justin and whatever the road ahead may require of them.