10 years ago, a loving husband and dad, Derek Gillaspie, suffered a stroke at only 34 years old. This past Saturday, May 31, 2025, Derek was life-flighted to the University of IA Hospitals and Clinics suffering a massive stroke affecting a much larger area of the same part of his brain. This stroke warranted an emergency craniotomy, which is a surgery to remove a portion of his skull to allow room for swelling. In 2015, doctors said he made a full recovery and had no physical setbacks or side effects. His wife, Jennifer, and their kids know differently: emotionally, he has never been the same. Now, Jennifer scrambles to figure out the logistics, define their new normal, and rebuild their family.

There’s too much uncertainty in the Gillaspie’s future right now. Not only is Derek still in the stroke intensive care unit, but after he’s discharged, he’ll be placed in inpatient rehabilitation for months. Sadly, only a week prior, Jennifer’s entire department at work was eliminated, and she surprisingly found herself competing in an already competitive, unprecedented workforce. As she fights for flexible employment that allows her to be there for Derek and the kids, she’s unable to match Derek’s income. Already applying and interviewing for jobs, Jennifer now worries about how they’ll make ends meet or if their home will be accessible when Derek returns.

The Gillaspie family is still figuring out what the coming months will look like, but any and all support is appreciated! They are grateful for all contributions to help secure their family’s future.