We’re coming together to support John and Erika Hartzell during an unexpected and overwhelming time. They need prayers and encouragement as they focus on Carson’s care and recovery.

Carson, their middle child, is 16 and truly one of the most social, adventurous, and determined kids you could ever meet. On Friday, April 17, everything changed suddenly when he had a serious medical episode during first period at school. From that moment, things escalated quickly, and their lives have been turned upside down.

Carson was transported by ambulance for emergency care and is now 13 days into a hospital stay at Carilion Children’s in Roanoke, about an hour and fifteen minutes from home. Carson is currently being treated for acute encephalitis, and there are still many unknowns. He is under the care of multiple specialists, including Neurology and Cardiology, and still waiting on additional answers from ongoing testing, including Mayo Clinic.

There are moments where he is in severe distress, and it’s incredibly hard to see him go through this. John and Erika are taking things one day at a time, juggling work, and long days at the hospital, staying by Carson’s side and holding onto hope as they wait for more answers.

Prayers are powerful, and we ask for continued prayers for Carson’s healing and for strength for John and Erika and their family. If you feel led to give, any financial support would help ease the burden of their growing medical expenses.

Venmo: John Hartzell @John-Hartzell-8