JOEY WILSON is Leo’s younger brother, my brother-in-law. Joey is a boyfriend, a son, a friend. He is kind, gentle, caring, funny, and full of life and laughter. He loved working his full-time job, which he has had for over 17 years, living in his own apartment, spending time with loved ones, fishing, camping, baking, and cooking. But then the unthinkable happened…

What was supposed to be a routine tonsillectomy turned into a nightmare… complications following surgery led to a cardiac arrest, without a heartbeat and without oxygen to his brain. The doctors worked furiously, racing against time, and got his heart beating again. He was placed on an ECMO machine (lung bypass) and a ventilator. His family was told to prepare for the worst. But Joey didn’t give up. He came back! He was placed in the ICU where he has been for the past month.

A timeline of Joey’s Amazing Journey

After being sedated for 12 out of the 31 days-

He got off the ECMO

He got off the ventilator

He follows movements in the room with his eyes

He turns his head to follow with his eyes

He squeezes our hands when asked

He babbles with intent, frustration, and determination

He raises his eyebrows to songs and familiar voices

He tries to speak by moving his mouth

He tries to move his arms and legs

He is able to lift his arms and legs ever so slightly

He was able to be placed in a recliner with the help of his brother and staff while he had visitors

He can hold a squeeze ball

He slowly pushes the ball toward another person when asked to throw it

He is saying his name

He gripped his girlfriend’s arm when she told him it was time for her to go

When asked his girlfriend’s name and his sister’s name, he responded appropriately!

Joey is a fighter!

He fights with incredible strength and determination daily, continuing to defy the odds and prove the statistics wrong with each baby step. But Joey has a very long and difficult road ahead. The financial burden is overwhelming; and it has only just begun. He will need specialized care. These treatments have been proven to help people with anoxic brain injuries, but as you already know, they are expensive.

The Road Ahead

Joey died and came back. That alone makes him a miracle. But he isn’t done yet. He has already surpassed expectations and with continued care, he can keep defying the odds. Please donate if you are able! Every donation will go directly to Joey’s medical care. Share, pray, send a card or letter, light a candle, say his name and tell his story…it’s still being written.

Every act of love has and will continue to fuel Joey’s comeback. Thank you so much for your support!

Letters and cards can be sent to:

PO Box 88

Delevan, NY 14042