Hi everyone,

My name is Allyon, and I'm sharing this with a hopeful heart on behalf of my husband, Joshua. Many of you know him as a quiet fighter, a loyal friend, and someone who always shows up for others. Right now, he's facing the biggest fight of his life and we could really use your prayers and support.

Joshua was rushed to the hospital and placed on ECMO, a machine that takes over the work of his heart and lungs. The doctors discovered that he has massive, long-standing blood clots that extend from his legs up to his heart and into his lungs. These clots have likely been building for months, maybe even a year, and they’re so extensive that when surgeons tried to remove one, they realized it was completely clotted all the way through. Some of the clots had even scabbed over; evidence of how long Joshua’s body has been fighting silently, finding ways to keep him alive when it shouldn't have been possible.

At first, he was too unstable for surgery. The medical team made the decision to slowly wean him off sedation and assess if his body could stabilize enough to qualify for a high-risk procedure. He hadn’t yet woken up, and we were told his chest would remain open while they gave his body more time to rest and recover.

A few days ago, Joshua underwent surgery, and it went well, praise God! They were able to close his chest, and he is now resting while still on ECMO. Over the next few days, the plan is to gradually wean him off the ECMO machine, then off the medication drips, the ventilator, and finally, the breathing tube. We’re praying for complete healing and that his body continues responding the way it has so far.

Right now, I’m staying by his side at UT Southwestern. I’ve been allowed to spend the nights with him, which has been a blessing. I just want to be there when he wakes up, to hold his hand, tell him he’s not alone, and let him know how much he’s loved.

This entire journey has been incredibly hard emotionally, physically, and financially. I’ve had to miss work to be here with him, and the medical bills are already starting to arrive. Our first bill came in at $15,000, and we know there will be more. Several friends and coworkers have asked how they can help. Honestly, it’s hard for me to ask for anything, but I’m learning to receive support with gratitude.

If you feel led to give, any amount will go directly toward Joshua’s medical bills, lost wages from time I’ve missed work, meals, transportation, and home needs during this long recovery.

If you can’t give, please pray. Share this with your friends, or anyone who might feel led to help.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for walking with us through this.

With love,

Allyon