Help Support David’s Fight Against Myasthenia Gravis

Hi everyone,

I’m reaching out to share my dad, David Russell’s, story and ask for your help during an incredibly difficult time.

In July, after months of feeling weak and not himself, David was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis (MG)—a rare autoimmune disorder that has turned his life upside down. For someone who has been physically strong and active his whole life, going from helping others to struggling to lift a kettle was a devastating shift. Over the past few months, MG has made everyday tasks harder than we could have ever imagined.

The condition, compounded by medications with harsh side effects— like compromised immune system, lymphatic swelling so bad that his limbs barely bend and his feet don’t fit into shoes, brain fog that makes him forget the simplest things, muscular atrophy, and bone fragility—along with debilitating spinal stenosis, has left him unable to care for himself. Simple acts like standing up, lifting objects, or even remembering to breathe have become daily battles.

David has been in the ICU at Sunnybrook Hospital for about a week now, receiving the care he desperately needs. While it’s the best place for him to be, being self-employed as a general contractor means he’s unable to work while hospitalized—and as many of you know, when you’re focusing on healing, the last thing you need is the stress of mounting bills.

Davids work is highly physical, and right now, he can’t even manage basic daily tasks, let alone take on the demanding jobs his business requires.

What makes this situation even more heartbreaking is the financial toll David has faced due to his unwavering generosity and misplaced trust. Over the years, David has helped countless people in need, often putting their needs before his own. He’s lent thousands of dollars to friends who asked for help in hard times—people he trusted and believed in—only to be met with silence when it came time to repay him. He’s taken chances on people by offering them jobs or financial support, and unfortunately, many of those chances came at a personal cost.

On top of that, David suffered a massive financial loss when someone he trusted to manage his investment portfolio stole his life savings from him. Despite his hard work and years of saving, this betrayal wiped out much of his financial security, leaving him to rebuild from scratch… again.

When COVID hit, forcing him to close down his gyms, David faced yet another significant blow to his livelihood. Despite all of this, he never stopped being there for others—quietly helping those in need without expecting anything in return.

Now, David needs our help.

We’re raising funds to cover David’s medical expenses, daily living costs, and to alleviate the financial stress that comes with being unable to work. Every donation—no matter the size—will make a huge difference in helping David focus on what matters most: his recovery.

If you can’t donate, sharing this post would mean the world to us. Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and prayers during this time.

With gratitude,

Aidan Russell