If you know Nate, you know his smile. He’s the friend who shows up—fiercely loyal, quirky, and always ready to talk, especially about sports. Nate loves playing and watching games, spending time with friends, and caring for his dog, Pete. He’s a connector and someone who genuinely enjoys life.

Two months into his freshman year at Cal Poly, Nate was thriving. Then, on October 25th, everything changed. Nate fell from a third-story ledge and was rushed to the hospital with severe brain trauma. We drove through the night, praying for his life. Nate underwent emergency surgery and spent days in a coma, surrounded by machines and constant monitoring. Every moment was filled with fear and hope.

After a second surgery, doctors kept Nate in a drug-induced coma for a week. When he finally woke up, it was the beginning of a long, hard fight. Nate endured a difficult transfer to Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, where he began intensive therapy—learning to sit, balance, and walk again. On Christmas Eve, Nate came home. Since then, he’s had his skull replaced and started post-acute therapy. He continues outpatient physical, occupational, and cognitive rehabilitation. His left side remains weak, but Nate is determined to regain strength and return to school.

Now, Nate will attend Kairos Learning Center, where a specialized plan will help him rebuild his academic confidence and cognitive skills. Because I have not returned to work since the accident, we are living on one income and paying for Nate’s education and rehabilitation out of pocket. This fundraiser will help cover education, therapy, and transportation costs, giving our family stability to focus on Nate’s recovery.

We are deeply grateful for every gift, prayer, and word of encouragement. Nate has always shown up for others—now we ask our community to show up for him. We believe in his future, his recovery, and in hope. Thank you for being part of Nate’s story.