Jim's New Journey

Hi, my name is Michelle, and I am raising funds for my dad, Jim Friedland. My dad has been battling diabetes for the last 40 years. Throughout those years, he has had two bypass surgeries, two toes amputated, and countless doctor's appointments for diabetic ulcers on his feet. My mom, Candy, has been dressing his wounds for years and doing a job as good as a nurse, despite not having any training! Unfortunately, not even her care can heal everything.

Most recently, my dad was admitted to the hospital on June 1, 2022, for a blood infection. The doctors thought they treated everything, and after spending a week in the hospital, he was sent home. Then, on Father's Day, June 19, 2022, he fell in the middle of the night. My mom called 911, and he was rushed back to the hospital. When he was admitted, it was found that he had a mild heart attack. An echocardiogram showed that his heart was stable. However, an MRI on his foot showed that his previous diabetic ulcers were severely infected and had spread to his bone and Achilles tendon. Unfortunately, those MRI results mean Jim will have to have a below-the-knee amputation on his right leg. In addition, he is having a pacemaker installed since his heart rate has been dropping, and the doctors need him stable for his surgery.

The funds raised will help Jim as his life significantly changes due to his amputation. He is going to spend many weeks in the hospital for rehabilitation. The hardest part is going to be when he goes home. Jim and Candy's home is not conducive for Jim to live his best life. They live in the upstairs of a duplex with MANY stairs. The hallways are small and barely wide enough for a wheelchair to fit through, much less make a turn. The shower has a tub and doors, making it impossible for Jim to get in. Therefore, they are looking to move into a place that can accommodate the lifestyle of an amputee. My parents are on social security, making it EXTREMELY difficult to find housing they can afford. Your donations will help cover all moving expenses and hopefully secure a place to live.

Additionally, my parents will need a new vehicle for my dad to be easily transported. I'm getting married in Minnesota in October, and one of my dad's biggest worries is getting to my wedding. I want him to know that he will be able to get there, come hell or high water! Whether renting a van or buying one, he needs something he can get in while still in his wheelchair.

Jim and Candy are both extremely prideful. They like to do things for themselves and don't always ask for help when they should. So I'm asking for help on their behalf and letting them know it's ok to have other people help once in a while! Any contribution is GREATLY appreciated and will be used directly to help Jim's new life journey. I can't thank you enough. It means the world to my family and me.