This is Gavin’s Story
This is the story of Gavin — a smart, funny, deeply loving kid who is about to face a surgery most people can’t even fathom.
On April 3rd, Gavin will undergo a total spinal fusion — a 10–12 hour surgery to correct severe spinal curves, both forward and sideways. And that’s only the beginning.
Four to six months later, he will face a total lower-body reconstruction involving his hips and femurs.
Originally, Gavin’s spinal surgery was scheduled at Shriners Children’s Hospital in St. Louis, where nearly all costs would have been covered. But after further evaluation, the chief anesthesiologist determined that, due to Gavin’s physical status (non-ambulatory and fully dependent), he will require ICU-level care after surgery.
For his safety, the surgery has been moved to St. Louis Children’s Hospital, where the same surgeon will operate — but the financial coverage changes dramatically.
This move gives Gavin access to the advanced post-operative care he needs, and that brings tremendous peace of mind. But it also means significant out-of-pocket costs for the family.
After surgery, Gavin will remain hospitalized for 7–10 days or longer — until he can tolerate movement, has regained bowel function, maintains weight, and has pain under control.
If you know Gavin’s story, you may remember that his last major surgery resulted in post-op complications and a 35-day hospital stay. We are praying for a smoother recovery this time.
What the Next Few Weeks Look Like
Between now and April 3rd, there will be:
Lab work
Virtual consultations
Meetings with surgeons, anesthesiologists, GI and pulmonary specialists
Hard conversations and careful planning
On April 2nd, Gavin will have a PICC line placed in St. Louis. Jessica and Tim will drive him there, return home, and then drive back the very next morning for surgery.
Gavin must arrive at the hospital at 5:00 AM, with surgery beginning at 7:30 AM.
Because hospital rooms are shared, only one parent can stay overnight — Jessica will remain at Gavin’s side. Tim will stay home, holding everything together for their other children: school, activities, homework, daily life — all while navigating the emotional weight of having a brother in surgery and mom away.
The Financial Reality
Insurance will only go so far.
There are countless expenses that are partially covered — or not covered at all:
Hospital deductibles and co-pays
Pre- and post-operative appointments
Lab fees
Prescriptions and medications
Adaptive medical equipment (walker/gait trainer, standing frame, backup wheelchair, seating systems, pressure-relief equipment — potentially $20,000+)
Travel to and from St. Louis for surgery, therapy, and follow-ups
Meals during hospital stays
Meals for children at home
Childcare when both parents must be away
Home modifications for recovery ($3,000–$6,000)
Lost income during 4–6 weeks of full-time recovery care ($3,600–$6,600)
We estimate at least $50,000 in out-of-pocket costs by the time both surgeries and recovery are complete.
How You Can Help
Our hope is simple:
To lift the financial burden so this family can focus fully on what matters most — Gavin’s healing.
If you are able to give, share, pray, or simply send encouragement, it all matters more than you know.
Gavin is brave.
He is resilient.
And he is so very loved.
