Thank you for being here to support Matthew and the Polaski family— a family that has always shown up for others. Now they need our help.

We are Tom and John, close friends of the Polaski family (Tom through work and John since childhood). We are reaching out on their behalf to ask for support with the rapidly growing medical expenses related to Matthew’s surgeries and ongoing care. The Polaskis would never ask this of anyone, which makes it all the more important that we step in and help however we can.

Mike, Steph, Matthew, and Evan were on a family vacation in the Dominican Republic during the holidays while Matthew was home on winter break from his freshman year at the University of Alabama. What should have been a joyful time together quickly became every parent’s worst nightmare. On December 28th, Matthew suffered a severe head injury after a fall. He was rushed to a local hospital where doctors performed emergency surgery to relieve swelling on his brain and save his life. He remains in critical care and was placed in a medically induced coma. Once stabilized, Matthew was transported by international medical flight to Miami, where his treatment continues.

Matthew is a hardworking, respectful young man with a deep passion for gymnastics. He recently began his college journey at Alabama, joined Sigma Pi fraternity, and has his whole future ahead of him. Mike and Steph have always been unwavering in their support—traveling to countless meets, tournaments, and college visits to help Matthew pursue his dreams. Right now, they are facing unimaginable uncertainty, not knowing what the coming days, weeks, or months will bring in terms of surgeries, recovery, and long-term care.

We started this GoFundMe after learning that the hospital in the Dominican Republic has already billed nearly $75,000. International medical transport costs alone are estimated between $35,000 and $55,000. Unfortunately, insurance provides very limited coverage for international medical care, and even with insurance, medical expenses in the U.S. add up quickly. This is only the beginning.

Our goal is to help ease the financial burden so Mike and Steph can focus entirely on Matthew’s recovery. We ask you to consider donating—any amount helps—and sharing this page if you are able. Please support a family that would never ask, but truly needs it, just as any of us would in their place.

Thank you for your generosity, prayers, and support. This account is set up by us (Tom and John), but all funds will go directly to the Polaski family. Let’s show them how much Matthew and his recovery mean to all of us.