We are coming together to support Nicole Baum and her family during an incredibly difficult and unexpected time.

Nikki’s 26-year-old son, Johnathan Tataranowicz, suffered a stroke and is currently at Gaylord Hospital, where he is fighting every day to recover. At just 26, Johnathan’s life changed in an instant. While he has already shown incredible strength and determination, his journey is far from over and will require extensive rehabilitation and ongoing care.

Nikki is a physical therapist, and because of her knowledge, experience, and deep love as a mother, she is committed to being by Johnathan’s side every day to ensure he receives the best possible therapy, advocacy, and support during this critical stage of recovery. Her presence is not only emotional — it is clinical, hands-on, and essential to helping him reach his full potential.

Nikki is a single parent running a household that includes her daughter Miranda, Shane, her 1-year-old grandson Odin, and two dogs. She works full time at Access Rehab Centers and an additional 25–30 hours per week per diem at Waterbury Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation for the past 3 years, where her patients truly adore her. Nikki’s compassion, skill, and dedication have made a lasting impact, and she will be deeply missed by her patients and colleagues during this time.

In order to be fully present for Johnathan, Nikki is taking 12 weeks off from both jobs — a decision made out of love, necessity, and unwavering commitment to her son’s recovery. While this time is invaluable for his healing, it also creates significant financial strain, alongside mounting medical, rehabilitation, and household expenses.

This GoFundMe has been created to help ease that burden so Nikki can focus on what matters most: being a mother, a grandmother, a caregiver, and an advocate for Johnathan during his long road to recovery. All donations will go toward medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, household needs, and essential support during this challenging time.

If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this fundraiser and keeping Nikki, Johnathan, and their family in your thoughts and prayers. Every gesture of support means more than words can express.

Thank you for standing with this family during one of the hardest moments of their lives.