On December 11th, Matt was violently shot six times while asleep in his own bed with his dog and girlfriend. The injuries caused severe damage to his left foot and leg, and have left him facing a long recovery, multiple surgeries, and the possibility of amputation.

Matt was struck three times in his left foot (his dominant side), once in the left knee, which was fortunately only a flesh wound, once in the right calf, and once in his right rear cheek. While some of these injuries were considered flesh wounds, two bullets remain lodged in his body. The damage to his left foot is the most severe.

Matt will require multiple surgeries and months of healing before he can regain use of his foot. Because of this, he will be unable to work for an extended period of time. He spent his birthday in the trauma ward and will likely spend Christmas, and possibly New Year’s Eve, in transitional care while awaiting his next surgery. The timing of that surgery depends entirely on how well and how quickly he heals.

He works as a bartender at a local beachfront hotel and relies on his physical ability to stand and move for long hours. Prior to the shooting, Matt lived an active life and spent much of his time with friends. He is now facing a prolonged hospital stay and limited mobility, unable to leave the hospital or return to normal daily activities.

Matt has sustained substantial bone loss in his left foot and faces a real risk of amputation. While doctors are doing everything possible to avoid it, there remains the possibility that he could lose part or all of his foot. In a worst-case scenario, the amputation could extend up to half of his lower leg.

The funds raised will help cover essential living expenses and bills Matt is unable to pay while he recovers. They will also help with the care of his six-year-old German Shepherd, who was in the room with Matt and his girlfriend during the shooting. She has not seen him since and is likely frightened and confused.

Like millions of others, Matt is uninsured and has no way to cover the significant medical expenses resulting from his injuries. These funds will help alleviate some of the financial burden so he can focus on healing and recovery.

This fundraiser is being organized by Matt’s family friends alongside his girlfriend, Andrea. Any donation or share is deeply appreciated and will directly support Matt during this difficult and uncertain time.

First Coast News- Man recovering after being shot