Love for the Barthels

The Barthel family started their Thanksgiving week with another serious medical emergency, far too many in a short amount of years. On Saturday the 18th, Nick experienced multiple strokes at their family home. Thankfully Krissy was nearby to be able to call first responders quickly. Nick was transported to Mercy where he underwent numerous tests and procedures.

Nick has an extensive medical history including multiple heart attacks and strokes. At 13 he had open heart surgery replacing his Aortic Valve with a mechanical valve. With every one of these scary times, Nick has always been positive. Always making the nurses and medical staff laugh and smile and praying for others.

By the grace of God, Nick is still here with us, but due to his extensive medical history there is a significant recovery that needs to take place. Even though Nick wants to get back to work asap due to his strong work ethic - It is also important for him to focus on his recovery so he can be around for Krissy, Madison and Zach (and the rest of us) for a very long time.

This family is always one of the first ones to help anyone else in need. Their hearts and giving nature is evident if you know them. They are integral parts of the STMA community and we would love to see some of that love given back to them in forms of a donation to help relieve the stress of both Krissy and Nick needing to miss work to focus on Nicks recovery and raising medical bills. We want them to not have to think or have more stress within these coming months for the holidays and coming medical bills. Krissy just began a new job and does not have benefits to assist with her time away and it is critical for her to be by Nicks side as much as she is able to to ensure his safety until he has made a full recovery. Additionally Nick is out of work for the time being and waiting on approval for his return and eligibility to drive.

This family has given to so many in the community, and showed up in so many ways for my family when we went through a terrible tragedy. I would love for them to be shown the same love and generosity that they so graciously show to others!

If you are unable to donate, please continue to keep Nick in your prayers for his current and future health. In addition, please know the signs and symptoms of a stroke and please don’t ever question or wait- always get medical care.