Bob Trumble suffered a simple slip and fall 6 years ago that changed the course of his life.

After regaining consciousness from his fall, he could not move. His spinal column was pinched due to the angle of his head during his fall and the following period of unconsciousness. After an air ambulance evacuation to the University of Michigan Hospital NCIU, spinal surgery relieved the pressure on his spinal cord, and some sensation to Bob’s limbs returned. A long road of recovery faced him.

After several months in a rehabilitation facility, Bob was able to return home where he receives 24-hour care. His friends organized the remodeling of his bathroom and bedroom to accommodate a hoist, zero-entry shower and hospital bed. 

Over four years, Bob’s entire life savings, earned as a foreign-language resource specialist in Dearborn Public Schools nearly 30 years, have been depleted. Bob is in his seventh year of retirement and was looking forward to many years of travel and adventure, and the opportunity to use the many languages he speaks.

All of that has changed. Bob is a power-wheelchair traveler now, and his scenic views are of his backyard. He cannot prepare his own food or maintain his personal hygiene without help, at debilitating expense. Friends have pitched in with home cooked meals, wading through insurance forms, and figuring out his medical expenses and remaining finances.

One thing is for sure: Bob’s Social Security, pension and insurance benefits do not begin to meet his monthly medical expenses and in-home care costs. He is single and has no immediate family in the area to help him either physically or financially. The supreme irony: Bob was the primary caregiver for his parents in the home where he now lives. His father was wheelchair bound until his death only seven years ago. Bob had recently removed the handicap modifications and sold the wheelchair lift van when his own life changed in one tragic slip.

After many years of helping others – from his invalid parents to the many English as a Second Language students in the Dearborn Public Schools, Bob now needs our help. Please contribute generously to enable Bob to continue his long road to recovery.

Since the last update about one year ago, there have been significant changes to Robert’s situation.  Due to the deterioration of his condition and lack of funds, he had to move from his lifetime home to a group home in Northville.  He is currently under hospice care.  (No, he isn’t terminal, just not doing as well.)  All of his pension and disability payments go to housing and personal care.  He still needs money to cover prescription co-pays, hospital bed repair/replacement and other personal care expenses.  Also, he still has significant outstanding debt due to in-home care and medical costs.

If you are considering donating, we appreciate it.  For everyone that has contributed, we can’t thank you enough!
(DPY)