Help Papa Mathis Recover After a Violent Attack ❤️
If you've found your way here, thank you for taking the time to read my grandfather's story!!!
My name is Becca, and I'm creating this fundraiser for my Papa, Dallas Mathis, an 85-year-old retired U.S. Navy veteran who has always been the kind of man to help others before himself.
Just a few days ago, our family's world was turned upside down.
While out running errands, Papa was the victim of a violent attack in Nashville, TN. He was assaulted and held at gunpoint, leaving him with multiple facial fractures, a broken nose, and other serious injuries. The physical damage has been devastating, and he now faces reconstructive surgery and a long road to recovery.
Watching someone you love go through something so unimaginable is heartbreaking. My grandfather has already endured so much loss over the past few years, and seeing him suffer like this has been incredibly difficult for our entire family.
Since sharing a small part of his story on Facebook, we have been overwhelmed by the kindness of friends, neighbors, veterans, businesses, and complete strangers. Thousands of people have reached out with prayers, cards, gifts, and messages asking how they can help. We have cried countless tears—not only because of what happened, but because of the incredible compassion so many people have shown.
After meeting with his doctors and beginning to understand the road ahead, we've decided to create this GoFundMe as the official place for anyone who has been asking how they can support Papa.
Your donations will help with:
- Medical expenses not covered by insurance
- Reconstructive surgery and follow-up care
- Medications and medical supplies
- Transportation to medical appointments
- Recovery and caregiving expenses
- Legal, safety, and protective expenses related to Papa’s recovery and well-being
- Other unexpected costs that arise during his healing journey
Because there is an active investigation and ongoing legal proceedings, we are unable to share every detail at this time. We appreciate your understanding as we allow the legal process to move forward.
If you know my Papa, you know he would never ask anyone for help. Truthfully, asking for help doesn't come naturally to our family either. But we've learned over these past few days that sometimes allowing others to love and support you is part of the healing process.
Whether you choose to donate, share this fundraiser, send a card, or simply keep Papa in your prayers, please know that every act of kindness means more than words can express.
Our greatest hope is that, in the middle of this tragedy, Papa is reminded that there is far more good in this world than evil. We want him to know he is loved—not only by his family, but by an entire community that has rallied around him.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for standing beside us during one of the hardest seasons of our lives.
With love and gratitude,
Becca and Papa Mathis❤️
Organizer
