On Thursday, January 23rd, my dad, Steve, was airlifted from Aurora Medical Center in Oshkosh to Aurora St. Luke's in Milwaukee for emergency neurosurgery on his back. The doctors had discovered an infection on his spinal cord, causing intense pain and paralysis in his lower body. After a grueling five-hour surgery, the surgeon assured us that the infection had been cleaned up, but he would start a long journey of IV antibiotics to ensure that it was gone from his body. My dad then spent about a week in ICU getting the infection under control, meeting with a team of doctors who continue to ensure he has the best care plan and that the infection is fought as tough as possible.

He has now been moved to a Physical Therapy floor at St. Luke's to work on regaining strength and use of both of his legs while healing from the surgery. He also continues to receive IV antibiotics and will for several more weeks. We are so proud of how hard he is working and the progress he is making, slow step by slow step. Although we don't know how long he'll remain in Milwaukee, we are so thankful for the great care he's receiving while he's there.

My parents are some of the most hardworking people I know. I speak on behalf of my brother and myself, that we would do anything for our parents, just as they've done for us. Our parents would never be ones to ask for anything, but we've decided to set up this GoFundMe in hopes to alleviate some of the financial burden they may face. Between the hospital bills, needs at home for when my dad returns, and hotel stays for my mom so she can stay in the same city as my dad during the week, the costs could be unimaginable.

We are so thankful for the family, friends, and community that have surrounded us during this unbelievable and shocking time in my dad's life. Our only focus is on getting him the best care possible and bringing him closer to home when he is ready. Any support we receive will go directly to my parents for the help they need. We are so appreciative to everyone who has reached out, called, texted, stopped at the hospital, etc. This is going to be a long journey, but I know how strong my dad is.

Thank you,

Amber Szekeres