Help Mark Recover After a Life-Changing Medical Emergency

On December 23, while driving his semi-truck home from work, my Dad suffered a medical emergency. He’s passed out behind the wheel on the freeway in Salt Lake City. By the grace of God, he only hit a cement barrier, avoiding serious harm to himself and others on the road. He regained consciousness and was able to see help coming. However, after EMTs arrived, they realized something was seriously wrong. His heart wasn’t working properly, his blood pressure was dangerously low, and they had to shock his heart back into rhythm.

We later learned that my Dad has Ventricular Tachycardia, a life-threatening heart condition. He doesn’t remember much after they shocked his heart—just waking up in the hospital. It’s seriously a Christmas miracle he is still here and it wasn’t worse. Tomorrow, December 26, he is undergoing surgery to have a defibrillator implanted. Without this, he might not survive another episode.

The good news is my dad is recovering well and staying positive, as he always does. He’s the kind of person who never complains, even when he’s sick or overworked. The bad news is this defibrillator means he can no longer work as a truck driver—a job he’s dedicated his life to. Losing his job also means losing his insurance and the ability to pay their household bills.

My dad is the most selfless, hardworking man I know. He’s the type to give the shirt off his back to help others and never asks for anything in return. Right now, though, he needs help—whether he likes to admit it or not.

The funds raised will go toward medical expenses, household bills, and helping my parents get through this tough time until my Dad can find a new job.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your generosity. Any support, big or small, means the world to us.

Stacia Gregory