Barry, my dad, is well known throughout our community and the Grand Strand for his hard work and dedication as an HVAC technician for over 30 years. Many of his customers - and family and friends - know that he would give the shirt off his back to help someone in need. Outside of work, he is a loving and active father and grandfather. His grandchildren, 3 years old and 1 year old, are his pride and joy. My dad makes friends everywhere he goes and helps out in any way he can, no matter what it takes. He always puts others before himself and has taught his children the importance of helping and caring for others as well.

On Saturday, November 8th, my dad went into cardiac arrest suddenly. There were no warning signs. He was transported to the hospital, then later life-flighted to another hospital due to his critical nature. He spent much time in the ICU fighting for his life and has slowly begun what is going to be an extremely long road to recovery. While my dad is now awake, he still has a difficult battle to fight, as his memory and speech are not back to where they should be. This medical event has caused him permanent brain damage due to the lack of oxygen he received when his heart stopped. However, he is extremely strong and intelligent, and he is proving that very thing to us every single day as he works to get better.

Unfortunately, due to the brain damage, we do not know what our new normal is going to look like. My mom has been out of work for over a month taking care of my dad in the hospital, and medical bills are beginning to pile up. We are also trying to get Dad a home health nurse to look after him when he is discharged from the hospital. Any donations would significantly help reduce the cost of the medical bills and take some pressure off my mom, who has been unable to return to work.

Thank you for taking the time to read my dad's story, and God bless!

-Stephenie