Standing with the Almeida Family

On January 20, a horrible car accident took the life of Christiellen Rodrigues Almeida, wife of Joel Almeida, and mother of Stephanie (age 12) and Jonathan (age 6). Joel works as a Navy chaplain at a marine base in California, serving both God and country.

 

Most of us cannot imagine the toll this will take on the two home-schooled children and their father.  Three days after the accident, Jonathan remained in the ICU in an induced coma.  Tragedy can strike anyone at any time. When it does, it can overwhelm the survivors for many years -- emotionally, spiritually, and financially.

 

I am one of many friends and co-workers who have been asking how they can help Joel and the children. With Joel's blessing, I decided that a Go Fund me could serve as a focal point for well-wishers and help ease the financial pain (all money raised will go to Joel). More importantly, we hope that the family draws strength from knowing that so many of us are behind them.

 

Thank you.

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Jan 24 update -- Jonathan is now awake and has been transferred from ICU to the neurological department.   He is aware but not speaking yet.  Moving both legs and left arm, but right arm movement just 10% so far.   We continue to pray for them.

Jan 29 update -- Jonathan is doing better and has been transferred to the rehab center.