Mark Ramirez Family Support Fund

Mark Ramirez is well known in the Lawrence restaurant community (former chef of Fifi's, currently with 6 Mile Chophouse).  What many may not know is how tough Mark is to do such a physically demanding job.  On December 13, 1988, Mark was in a devastating car accident that left him with rods in his back and nerve and circulatory damage in in lower extremities.  Yet, if you know him, you know he is quick with a smile (even behind a mask!) or one of his many quick witted jokes. 

Fast forward to a month ago when he developed a blister on his pinky toe.  After seeing his primary care doctor, they determined it was okay and would heal.  By Thanksgiving, it really hurt and by that Sunday he couldn't walk on that foot.  On December 4th, 2020 he arrived and the LMH ER and after evaluation by an incredible team of doctors including a wound care specialist, an infectious disease doctor and a podiatrist they decided to admit him to the hospital.  During that time, they learned that the infection had spread to the bone and all of this was complicated by the previous damage to his nervous and circulatory systems.  He was released from LMH on December 7, 2020 and sent home with a PIC line that would deliver much needed antibiotics and pain meds (the saving grace being that they did not find MRSA in their cultures).  Because the infection had reached the bone, it was hard to treat and they determined that the best course of action was to do a 5th tarsal and metatarsal amputation.  Mark is having that surgery on December 11, 2020 (and is prepping for that surgery as I type) and will be off work for at least 4-6 weeks.  His wife (and my best friend), a special education teacher in Baldwin, will be their sole breadwinner during this time (and we all know teachers don't make nearly what they deserve). 

I'm hoping that the many people who know and love both Mark and Jennifer will come together and bring them some much needed monetary relief during this difficult time. Not only will they miss many weeks of Mark's income as he recovers but they will also have extensive medical bills to cover.  If you are able, please consider donating to help their family during this time. I know this year has been tough and so many are struggling, but this family could really use the help of friends and family to get them through. I know we always hear this, but really, no amount is too small.  If you aren't able to help monetarily, please reach out and give them a kind word, help with a meal, or send them some healing prayers. 

Much love,

Cindy