For many, the past two years have been life-changing due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For the Smith family, it has been particularly challenging as Christopher Smith, a cherished husband, father, son and brother was diagnosed with the virus.

As a result, Chris was admitted to the North York General emergency department on May 10, 2021, due to difficulty breathing. Chris’ symptoms dramatically worsened and he was transferred to the ICU. At this time, Chris was intubated. Unfortunately, he did not respond well to mechanical ventilation and his condition continued to deteriorate.

Consequently, Chris was urgently relocated to the Toronto General Hospital’s ECMO program. ECMO, an artificial heart-lung bypass machine which provides life-support, was the absolute last intervention available, as it is reserved for the sickest COVID patients in Ontario. He was also placed on a ventilator due to his extensive lung damage.

While in the ICU, at The Toronto General Hospital, Chris continued to fight for his life. During this time, Chris has undergone two tracheostomy surgeries and an emergency embolization for a life-threatening chest hemorrhage. He has also experienced numerous complications from the treatments, including blood clots, kidney deteriation, and excessive blood loss, resulting in multiple blood transfusions.

Chris’ health remains in serious condition and his future is uncertain, including his rehabilitation and ability to return to work any time soon.

Chris is a devoted husband to his lovely wife, Patricia, of 18 years and an adoring father to his two beautiful children, Osten, age 17, and Madison, age 15, as well as a dear and beloved friend to many worldwide.

On behalf of Chris, the Smith family and their friends, we are forever grateful to everyone who has showered the Smith family with love and moral support throughout this time. We ask that you please continue to keep Chris and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

With your support, Chris’ closest friends and family have started this GoFundMe page in order to raise funds for his tremendous out-of-pocket physiotherapy and rehabilitation costs (that go beyond available insurance), as well as mortgage and household expenses (as he has been without income for months). We greatly appreciate all your kind words and generosity in order to support Chris’ family and provide Patricia, Osten, and Madison with comfort and security as they find the strength to move forward during this devastating time.

Please share this page, or if you can, please donate. Many thanks for your support and consideration,

Friends and family of Christopher Smith