Steven & Juli Wilson

This fundraiser is for Steven and Juli Wilson, my brother-in-law and sister, to offset medical expenses and medical-related travel expenses.

On July 7 in a freak accident, Steven fell off his boat, hit his head and neck on a concrete block, and fell into the water. The result was a concussion and, more significantly, damage to his spine, which has consequently impacted his ability to feel and move either leg and one of his arms. It's also affected his breathing, resulting in him having to be intubated and on a ventilator. Since his accident, Steven has also had a stroke and was diagnosed with pneumonia. He basically has a Forrest Gump box of chocolates - except it's physical problems (which taste pretty nasty).

While the US Virgin Islands, where Juli and Steven live, is an earthly paradise, the medical care is poor, so Steven is currently receiving medical care in Miami. Juli is there with him.

The Miami medical team is working tirelessly to stabilize Steven, get him the treatment he needs to heal, and eventually begin treatment and rehabilitation. Fortunately, Juli has insurance that will cover much of the medical expenses; however, there's a significant deductible. In addition, they need to purchase a wheelchair and there will be the expenses of airfare, lodging, and food for Juli to make the trip from the US Virgin Islands to Miami to visit Steven until he can finally go home.

We all know the road to recovery is long. It's also costly.

This fundraiser is to support Steven and Juli on that road by helping offset the deductible expense and to help support Juli so she can take care of and be with Steven.

I'm giving up my daily coffee drink and donating it to Steven and Juli instead. (I'm not giving up my weekly wine consumption though - we're sisters, but I don't love her that much.) Whatever amount you can donate is meaningful and appreciated. Don't have a few greenbacks to donate? Please share this fundraiser and encourage others to.

This isn't tax-deductible, but a donation may leave you feeling like you're a good person -- because in my book, you'd be an awfully good person to help Steven and Juli right now.

Thank you.