Buddy, my name is Rudy Brown and I honestly never thought I'd be making one of these, but here we are. Earlier this year, I felt a sharp pain in my abdomen that made it hard for me to walk or even stand up straight. I'm not one to make trips to Urgent Care, but something didn't feel right this time around, so the next morning I knew there was no denying this trip was crucial. I spent the entire day in the hospital having my stomach pressed, being poked with needles, waiting, anticipating, and keeping a positive attitude as I knew something was wrong but wasn't quite sure exactly what.

After my CT scan, they assumed it could be appendicitis or diverticulitis, but were unsure (still not too sure today). They admitted me into the hospital that same day to keep an eye on me. I went 4 days without eating or drinking due to the issues in my stomach and to ensure no more issues arose. Finally, I was granted the sweet satisfaction of liquids. I never loved broth more than I did that day. I was able to leave the hospital a few days later, but that was for a short period of time. I was sweating a lot, gaining chills, and my energy was curiously low. Then I got a call from Kaiser to return immediately as they found 3 different forms of bacteria, the last of which being a rare bacteria which, unbeknownst to me, my body was desperately fighting. I spent 6 more days in the hospital and after another CT scan, they were able to find that an abscess had formed on my colon. I had a procedure done to drain the abscess and insert a tube that is still hanging out from my tummy... it's gross.

I'm still in recovery, in pain, still on meds, and out of work, but hopeful nonetheless that this will be over soon. I still have 2 more procedures coming up to hopefully close the door on this saga, but what a way to start the year. That's why I am asking for your help. I am generally a very private person and don't share much about my personal life, but I am in need of support for the medical bills, loss of work, home adjustments post procedures, and the recovery process. I am forever grateful for any help and support, but mainly grateful that for now, I was able to walk out of the hospital to see friends and feel the sun on my skin after days of hospital walls.