Update!!!!!!

We are beyond grateful for all the generosity and kindness being sent Ethan's way!! We are well on our way to our fundraising goal!

Unfortunately, due to several complications, Ethan has returned to the hospital and had two additional surgeries since the initial ileostomy. He remains in the ICU at VB General, but he is in good spirits and motivated to get out of there as soon as possible! If you have his number, shoot him a text or send him a poop joke! Laughter really is the best medicine!

We continue to ask for your support and generosity to help him on his road to recovery. Please continue to share our fundraiser link and donate here or send contributions directly to his Cash App, $EthanDeGutis.

Ethan represents the best in all of us- and we love you all!

Thank you for all the love and support ❤️

The families of Reilly and Ethan

Hello everyone,

I’m reaching out on behalf of my 24-year-old nephew, Ethan, who recently endured a serious medical emergency that required over 20 days in the hospital and a life-changing ileostomy surgery. This experience has been overwhelming—physically, emotionally, and financially—for him, his beautiful girlfriend, Reilly, and his entire family.

What started as abdominal pain back in May, quickly escalated into a life-threatening situation. Ethan was admitted in and out of the hospital several times and spent a total of nearly three weeks this summer under intensive medical care. What was initially thought to be a flare of severe ulcerative colitis, eventually evolved into a toxic mega-colon, and last Monday he underwent emergency life-saving surgery. Doctors performed an ileostomy, a major surgery that diverted his intestinal function to an external pouch and his entire colon was removed. As you can imagine, the recovery process so far has been incredibly tough, and he still faces a long road ahead with follow-up care, specialist visits, and ongoing supplies and support. He is so brave, so strong and with Reilly by his side, we know he will push through this!

Unfortunately, the financial burden from the multiple hospital stays, surgery, and aftercare has become overwhelming, and will continue to saddle him with a debt no 24 year old should have.

We’re asking for your help to raise funds to cover:

Hospital and surgical bills

Follow-up appointments and specialist care

Medical supplies and ileostomy care essentials

Transportation and other recovery-related expenses

Ethan is a kind, strong, and resilient young man who has so much life ahead of him. He has the kindest heart and would never ask for help on his own. Your support—no matter how big or small—will make a world of difference in helping him focus on healing, instead of financial stress. If you would prefer to send donations to Ethan directly, his Cash App is $EthanDeGutis. If you would prefer to send a check or gift card, please reach out to family member directly.

If you’re not able to donate, please consider sharing this page to help us spread the word. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your love, generosity, and support.

With gratitude,

The Family of Ethan DeGutis