I’m raising funds for my son, Matthew Lanske, after he was one of the victims of the Belltown shooting in downtown Seattle this weekend. Matthew was shot three times in the abdomen, suffering a fractured pelvis and devastating damage to his intestines. He lost an enormous amount of blood, and we came terrifyingly close to losing him.

After being shot, Matthew somehow walked nearly two blocks searching for help before collapsing outside the 7-Eleven on Denny Way. Two Seattle police officers stayed with him and helped keep him alive until paramedics arrived, and I will forever be grateful to them. Matthew was rushed to Harborview, taken straight into the operating room for emergency surgery, and then placed on life support in the Trauma ICU. He has since gone through a second major surgery, where doctors were able to reconnect his intestines. The fact that my son is alive today is truly a miracle.

Matthew is one of the strongest, kindest, and most loving people I know. Anyone who knows him knows what a beautiful heart he has. Right now, he has a long recovery ahead and will be unable to work for quite some time. That means the financial pressure does not end with the hospital stay. Support will continue to help with Matthew’s ongoing needs as he heals, including medical and recovery supplies, living expenses, transportation, and anything else he needs during this recovery.

If you are able, please consider making a recurring donation to help with the expenses that will continue over time while Matthew cannot work. One-time donations are also deeply appreciated and will make a real difference. Every dollar raised will go toward Matthew so he can focus on getting stronger instead of worrying about money.

If you can donate, share this fundraiser, or keep Matthew in your prayers, our family is incredibly grateful. He survived. He is fighting. And we will be beside him every step of the way.