<div>UPDATE: I originally started this fundraiser thinking Chris would be able to return to work for us in mid-March after his surgery in November 2023. He wasn't able to come back until the first or April and was back in the ER within a week. He has since undergone THREE additional surgeries: one to flush out a second strand of staph; one to flush out a THIRD infection AND remove a portion of his skull; and another, only two weeks later, when the infection returned.  He will now be in the hospital at least two weeks and there will be at least one additional surgery in the fall to insert a protective "cap" where they removed the bone.
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<div>Since last November, Chris has only been able to work a few weeks. He hasn't seen his son or daughter since March 2023, but we were able to bring his wife over for a couple weeks.  Thank you for any amount you are able to donate.  Chris and his family truly hate to ask, but sincerely appreciate everyones kindness.
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<div>Original Post:
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<div>My name is Ashley. This fundraiser is for my employee, Chris Walters. Chris is from South Africa and worked on my farm last fall 22 and returned in March 23. He was supposed to finish his 2023 contract and fly home to his family on December 15, but had to undergo emergency surgery for a hematoma in his skull on November 26! Because of this, he has high medical bills, can not travel home, and -- because his work Visa has expired -- can not work to earn an income for the next three months until our new H2A contract begins.
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<div>I'm committed to ensuring Chris has a roof over his head and stays well fed while he is here, but there are mounting expenses that he could use your help with. <strong>I want to emphasize that he was legally here and working hard to provide for his family. He pays for his own health insurance, but does have a high deductible.</strong> <strong>His family has used all of their savings to support his wife and children still in South Africa. Then, just three days back to work, he developed another infection and has been off work another week. </strong>
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<div>He has a great attitude about a bad situation, and I hope you would consider helping him out.
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<div>Here's a word from Chris's wife, Lizel:
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<div>First, I want to thank you for taking the time to read this. This is the first time that I have had to do something like this. This is an extremely hard and emotional time for us as a family.
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<div>My heart is in pieces, and the stress is unbearable. I don't know how we will cope with no income for months. With my husband not able to work, I don't know how we are going to pay rent, buy food, and just all the basic monthly needs.
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<div>I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt appreciation for your support and generosity in considering our request for funds. Your willingness to help means the world to us. Once again, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support.
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Anonymous

Lourens Erasmus

PJ DE LANGE

Danie Kotze

Karen Sweazy

Laura Huff

Tiaan Burger

Ruby Wiehman

Felix de Villiers

Charl Du Plessis

Gregan Van Niekerk

Edward Parks

Jaco Niemann

Marian Bichon

Jennifer Perkins Propes

Help Chris after FOURTH brain surgery in seven months

Help Chris after FOURTH brain surgery in seven months

Still $6,740 to go. Help us build momentum.