This morning at 5 AM, I received a call from my mother asking me to pick up my little sister, Autumn. Not knowing all the details, I rushed to Wytheville to get her. When I arrived, I found my father in the ER, experiencing tremendous pain. As if that wasn't alarming enough, while I was talking to him and my mother, his oxygen levels dropped, and doctors rushed in to inform us that he needed to be taken to Salem. It turned out his appendix had ruptured.

He underwent emergency surgery in Salem, but unfortunately, we received more bad news. The infection was severe and had spread to his abdomen, and he is at risk since he only has one kidney due to a previous surgery. Currently, he is out of surgery but hasn't woken up from anesthesia. They are monitoring him closely with a drain tube in place and watching for sepsis.

I kindly ask for your patience and understanding for my parents during this difficult time. I know that many of you may not have received a call, and this may be how you are finding out about the situation. I apologize for that. Everything has unfolded in less than 24 hours, and we are still processing it all. Please refrain from calling or texting, as we currently do not have contact with my dad.

Additionally, I am seeking financial assistance for my parents. They will face significant medical bills once he comes home next week, and anything helps. I'm trying to keep this a surprise from my mother to lighten her burden when she is able to come home. I appreciate any help you can provide. Thank you all!