David woke up paralyzed without bowel/bladder control, but unsurprisingly, with an incredible attitude. When asked about living with paraplegia, David said, “I didn’t have paralysis on my bingo card, but it’s what I’ve got, so I am going to enjoy the life I have.” 

He acquired an infection around his total knee on May 13. It spread to his back with an abscess requiring emergency decompression @ L2-L5. He had surgery, but contracted bacterial meningitis, 2 types of fungal pneumonia, and ventriculitis. David was on a ventilator at Vanderbilt Hospital for 4 weeks. Fighting for his life with temperatures of up to 107.7, he wasn’t expected to live. Doctors, however, underestimated his strength and the miracle that is David.

Even after having experiencing more adversity than most people see in their lifetimes, David and his wife are the kindest, most giving, and positive people. One of their children had cancer. David’s wife is disabled, and they have overcome many personal tragedies.

While in rehab, David developed more complications from multiple large clots in his legs. David requires assistance so he can live independently and continue to contribute. If you are in a position to make a donation, David has huge medical bills, requires lifetime medical care and assistance that health insurance will not cover. He needs a bathroom and shower that will accommodate his wheel chair. That cost alone is up to $20,000.

As healthcare professionals, both David and Sharon have dedicated their lives to helping others. David was a surgical nurse for 20 years and has spent the last 20 years serving people with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities. He served in the Army, was a Captain, and was Honorably Discharged. I met David and Sharon many years ago and they have become my family. David and his wife are an inspiration and the kind of people who will pay forward every favor and kindness given to them. Every little bit will help David move forward . Thank you in advance for honoring these two beautiful people with your generosity. #TeamDave