On Labor Day, Billy Howe's wife, Autumn noticed that something wasn't right. Billy was confused and not acting like himself, so she took him to the ER in Abilene, KS. After running several tests without finding a clear answer, the doctors contacted KU Med in Kansas City. Billy was transported by helicopter that same day.

At KU Med, Billy was diagnosed with viral meningitis. Further testing later came back positive for West Nile Virus. His condition became serious enough that he spent 3 days on a ventilator.

Billy is now facing a long road to recovery. When he is discharged from the hospital, he will go directly into intensive inpatient rehabilitation, where doctors expect he could spend anywhere from several weeks to possibly months. The extent of his recovery is still uncertain, but his family knows that getting him home will require significant changes and continued care.

At the same, Billy and his wife Autumn are expecting their 5th child, a baby girl due at the end of October. More than anything, she desperately wants Billy home to meet their daughter and be there with their family.

Before Billy became sick, the family had a dog grooming business that they had planned to close when the baby arrived so that his wife could stay home and care for their children and the home. She had planned to continue working until the baby was born, but Billy's sudden illness has changed everything. She now needs to close the business early so she can prepare their home for both their new baby and for Billy's return, especially since he will not be able to use stairs for the foreseeable future.

Billy also worked at FedEx, and the family has lost his income throughout his hospitalization and upcoming rehabilitation. With medical expenses, everyday household costs, and the loss of his paycheck the financial strain has become overwhelming.

The family also runs a small sheep farm. Their animals still need hay, feed, and supplies, regardless of what is happening with the family. Right now, they simply do not have the funds to keep up with those necessities while also managing the costs of Billy's recovery and preparing for their baby.

This family is facing an incredibly difficult season, and they are asking for help getting through it. Donations will help cover household expenses, medical and rehabilitation related costs, baby preparations, and the hay and supplies needed to care for their sheep while Billy is unable to work.

Any amount, no matter how small, would mean so much to the Howe family. For those who are unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser and keeping Billy and his family in your thoughts and prayers would be deeply appreciated.

Their greatest hope is simple: to bring Billy home, help him regain his strength, and have him there to welcome their baby girl into the world.