Hi, my name is Amy and my dear friends are going through a very difficult time and I'm reaching out for your help, prayers and support.

September 19th, their son, Chris Paulsen, went into the hospital with severe stomach pains and fevers. It was quickly determined that he needed emergency appendix removal. That morning he went into surgery. Unfortunately, the appendix had already perforated causing infections and more complications. Chris is still in the hospital and he continues to fight, even though even more complications continue to challenge him.

Chris just turned 16 years old on the 13th. He's a Sophomore at Rockford High School. Chris has two siblings, an older sister who is a freshman in college and a younger brother who's a 4th grader at Rockford Elementary. He has a Dad, Todd, Mom, Julie and Step-Mom, Vanessa. He's loved so dearly! But not only by his family, he is well loved and respected by his peers too. He's on the Rockford basketball team and plays in the Pep Band. He was a cub scout and boy scout for many years. Chris is witty, intelligent, thoughtful, kind and considerate. He's got an excellent sense of humor too!

If you or a loved one have been in the hospital since Covid, you know that not only is it difficult enough to be sick and away from home, but it is much more difficult with the restrictions of visitors. His own siblings and step-mom haven't been able to visit him, adding another layer of stress. It also means both Mom and Dad are setting aside their normal lives, work, chores, etc. to be there for Chris daily. Meanwhile those at home worry and feel helpless.

Lastly, if we can do anything to support or remove additional stress for the family, especially the anxiety of building medical expenses, it would help them to focus on just Chris's healing.

Please give thought and prayer to this. You are appreciated so much!