Support for Rich’s Recovery

Hi, my name is Michelle Evans. I am a friend of Rich Fernandez and his family. I setup this GoFundMe to help them during this difficult time. All support will be used to help with Rich’s medical expenses and bills that accrue while he is unable to work.

What should have been a fun and exciting college visit to the UP for the Fernandez family turned into an incredibly scary situation. Rich had a massive heart attack in Houghton on Monday, Jan 22nd. He was transported by ambulance to the UP Health System in Marquette due to the seriousness of his condition. It is the only facility in the UP with a cath lab and equipped to perform open heart surgery. Returning to SE Michigan wasn’t feasible given the distance and risks. After transport to Marquette, Rich had to wait 5 days before undergoing triple bypass surgery on Saturday, Jan 27th. All told, he spent 8 days in the ICU. Thankfully, the surgery was successful and he and his family are finally heading home today.

The weeks and months ahead will be tough. Rich will need around the clock care during this next week. He will be unable to drive for 6 weeks and unable to return to work for about 3 months. The road to recovery will be difficult and he will need support from his friends and family.

Rich has been a personal trainer for 35 years and is only compensated when he’s working. Since he is the main breadwinner and will be unable to work in full capacity for about 3 months, the family is in a difficult spot. Please consider offering support to the Fernandez family as they navigate this scary and difficult situation, and as they focus on helping Rich get back on his feet.