As many of you know, our beloved Matthew has suffered from a form of Guillain–Barré Syndrome since February. The diagnosis appears to be a chronic version, which requires ongoing infusion treatments and a complete lifestyle overhaul for both Matthew and Marc.

Three weeks after coming home from a prolonged stay at the hospital, Matthew’s condition worsened, and he was readmitted. He is now almost a functional quadriplegic and continues to decline despite weekly infusions. For the latest status on Matthew’s condition and care, visit his Caring Bridge site.

Matthew and Marc’s insurance coverage for acute, in-patient rehab has run out, and they have reached the point where is not safe for Marc and various helpers to care for him on their own.

They have hired a certified nursing assistant for 5 hours a day, 5 days a week and even this is not enough. Matthew needs nearly 24-hour professional care. They are looking for and interviewing possible CNAs but paying them costs money.

Out-of-pocket money. This is an expense Matthew and Marc never thought they would have to incur. The monthly cost is $10,000. The road ahead is long and uncharted. We don’t know when Matthew will regain function but anticipate at least six months.

We come to you — their community of friends, family, neighbors, colleagues, and clients – who have been so supportive these past 4 months. Many of you have asked how you can help. While they appreciate – and will continue to appreciate — your cards, texts, calls, and the nourishing meals you’ve provided, it is time to humbly ask for financial support. Your donations will be used to pay professional care staff who provide for Matthew’s extensive daily needs, as well as any other unforeseen costs that may arise on his road to recovery.

Please feel free to post this to your social media feeds where people who may be interested in supporting Matthew and Marc will see it.

Due to journalism ethics, people who Marc has written about or may write about are asked not to contribute in this way.

Thank you so much for your concern, emotional and financial support, and well wishes. Together we believe we can not only get Matthew walking again, but also bring back those famous hugs and get him dancing like he did on the Dingle Peninsula.