Help My Parents—Both Retired Air Force Lt. Colonels—Through a Life‑Changing Medical Crisis

I never imagined I would be writing something like this, but my family is facing the most painful and uncertain time of our lives.

Both of my parents are retired Lieutenant Colonels in the United States Air Force. They devoted decades of their lives to serving this country with honor, discipline, and sacrifice. They have been married for 55 years, standing side by side through deployments, challenges, and everything life has thrown their way. They have always faced life and hardship together.

In December 2025, both of my parents suffered carbon monoxide poisoning. At the time, we believed they had survived the worst and were focused on immediate recovery. What we did not know—and what so few families are warned about—is that the effects of carbon monoxide poisoning can continue to unfold long after the initial exposure ends.

Within just 10 days, my father had experienced Delayed Neurological Sequelae (DNS)—a devastating neurological condition that can appear days, weeks, or even months after carbon monoxide poisoning. While the world believed the danger had passed, his neurological health rapidly and frighteningly declined.

DNS has affected my father's brain and nervous system in heartbreaking ways. Tasks he once did effortlessly—walking, talking, bathing, thinking clearly, remembering, communicating, moving independently—are now impossible. Watching a man who spent his life teaching, leading, serving, and protecting others struggle for basic functions is something I never could have prepared for.

For four long months, my mother and I have fought relentlessly to get him the next step in treatment. We have navigated an overwhelming medical system, made countless phone calls, appealed decisions, and pushed through endless red tape—all while watching his condition change. Despite our persistence, progress has been painfully slow, and each delay feels like precious time slipping away.

Recently, we were devastated to learn that insurance may no longer be paying for his hospitalization. At the same time, transferring him to another facility is not an option yet, as his recovery has been slow and complex. This has left us facing unbearable uncertainty: the possibility of losing essential care when he still desperately needs it, all while the current hospital is wanting to force him out the door. Their persistence is disheartening.

The emotional weight of this situation has been overwhelming—especially for my mother. After 55 years of marriage, she is watching the man she loves and built a life with fight to recover, while also continuing to heal from her own carbon monoxide poisoning while dealing with stress and her own health conditions.

The financial strain has and will continue to become overwhelming. Hospitalization, neurological treatment, rehabilitation, transportation, and ongoing care needs continue to add up, and we cannot do this alone. While we have been working with the VA to see if they will be able to provide any assistance to my parents, we are struggling to have his service connections made due to his hospitalization and it is unknown if they will assist at all.

I am requesting assistance in raising funds to help cover:

*Hospital and medical expenses

*Electrical hospital bed (so mom can use it alone if needed)

*Neurological treatment and rehabilitation services

*Transportation, in‑home support, and recovery‑related costs

*An electronic home lift and adaptable vehicle

This fundraiser is about protecting my father during his most vulnerable moment, supporting my mother as she continues to heal, and helping two people who dedicated their lives to service receive the care, dignity, and compassion they deserve now, all while continuing to see if the VA will help with any support where none currently exists.

Any donation—no matter the amount—truly makes a difference. If you’re unable to give, sharing this fundraiser or keeping my parents in your thoughts and prayers would mean more than I can express.

Thank you for reading our story, for honoring my parents’ service, and for standing with us during the hardest chapter of our lives.

With heartfelt gratitude and thanks,

Amy Smith (Stice)