Help get Ted a Motorized Wheelchair!

Story

Hey friends! As many of you know, back in December 2022, our world was turned upside down when my father suffered a debilitating stroke. My oldest son and husband found him in his truck, parked in our driveway. We called 911 immediately, not knowing what was happening or how serious it was. He was rushed to Hamilton General Hospital, and by the time I arrived, I was still unaware of what lay ahead. After an hour of waiting, doctors confirmed it was a major stroke, possibly accompanied by a seizure. When they finally brought me back to see him, he was intubated and on life support. At this moment, they were unable to confirm if he would survive, how much damage was done and what our future would hold. He was transferred to the ICU shortly after arrival, where he remained under 24-hour care as they discovered he had suffered three mini-strokes and one minor stroke affecting his memory core. Those first 14 days were terrifying. On top of the strokes, he battled pneumonia, stomach ulcers, and prostate complications. Doctors even warned us he might not remember who we were. But when he finally woke up, he recognized us! A miracle moment that marked the beginning of a long and painful recovery journey. He was transferred to the Regional Rehab Centre at the Hamilton General Hospital for over two months, but unfortunately, suffered three additional mini-strokes during his stay. These took away the use of the entire left side of his body. From there, he was moved to St. Peter’s Hospital for further rehabilitation. When progress slowed, his team recommended he be moved to Connect Hamilton, a specialized living facility focused on rehabilitation. In spring 2023, he moved into Connect with the hope of eventually regaining enough independence to live on his own. Sadly, his health continued to decline. He was diagnosed with end-stage COPD and possibly prostate cancer. At that point, the focus shifted from rehabilitation to full-time care. In August 2024, he moved into Macassa Lodge, a long-term care home where he now lives. While one wheelchair was generously donated to him, it doesn’t suit his physical needs. Due to left-side neglect and his severe COPD, he struggles with mobility and often runs out of breath trying to get around. This is why we are reaching out. A motorized wheelchair would give my dad the independence and dignity he deserves. It would allow him to move freely through his home without exhaustion or risk of injury. It would give him comfort, joy, and control in a life that has been dramatically changed. We are humbly asking for your support to help us raise the funds to purchase the right motorized wheelchair for him. Every donation, big or small, will make a difference and help improve the quality of his life. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for reading, sharing, and supporting my dad. With gratitude, Katelyn & Family