Help Eric regain his independence!

Eric Fass has been a monumental member of the community for many years. He has helped others in many ways, including saving lives as a firefighter until his accident and as an EMT in the past for over 21 years total! It is now time that Eric needs our help in return.

On July 24th, 2021 Eric suffered a traumatic brain injury in a freak accident when his cow was spooked at the county fair. Eric hit his head on the ground and was subsequently rushed to the hospital in critical condition. He has undergone many surgeries, endured a year of rehabilitation, continued rehab while at home, and pushed on to get to where he is now. Eric still uses a wheelchair due to left-sided weakness, has a trach, and needs round-the-clock care.

Amanda has been very reluctant to post or ask this, but she also knows they can't do it independently. Please be kind and understanding as you read her post below. Eric still has many needs that are not yet met and in order to regain his independence, these are necessary requests!

Amanda's message:

Sometimes I feel like I'm always asking for help or not asking and help comes anyway from our great community, friends, and family. Thank you!!

I want to reach out..... As Eric progresses, we are looking into purchasing him a motorized wheelchair that will allow him to tilt, move, stand, and have some independence to do things on his own. We were utterly sticker shocked (over $31,000!!!) and have learned more than I ever wanted to learn about wheelchairs and just how important it is to have sized and fitted for your body type to ultimately improve your overall well-being and rehabilitation.

I have also learned of a Nueroplasticity Center in Denver that will look into his brain and see what is and what is not firing to determine an at home therapy plan. This happens during a one week stay every few months. They do not accept insurance. A week stay is $6,900 with the first responders discount. Even with Eric's previous benefit fundraisersand not being able to work, the medical expenses and handicapped accommodations have hit us hard. We are thankful for our beef business, great neighbors, and ADM to help keep us afloat along with all of the donated leave I've received from my work.

I know that it never hurts to ask so with all that being said we would be so very blessed if anyone would like to help us get to Denver and get his independence chair. I've had mixed emotions about sending this and asking for more help as we've already received so much, especially Eric as a survivor. Whatever happens we will give it our best and be forever thankful for the people God has brought into it lives.