As many of you know, just over four years ago, Brad underwent major surgery after being rushed to OSF Saint Francis Medical Center for a life-threatening Type B Aortic Dissection. Thanks to the incredible care he received and the outpouring of support from friends and family, he was able to begin the long road to recovery.

Since then, Brad has been under close observation by a team of specialists at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, with ongoing appointments, testing, and adjustments to his medications and lifestyle. And while doctors had anticipated another minor surgery down the line, nobody expected what has come to be now. Over the past month, Brad has experienced increasing symptoms — including severe headaches, chest and neck pain and shortness of breath — and recent scans revealed that his bypass is now 100% blocked.

After much evaluation and consideration, his medical team has determined that it is time. Brad will undergo another round of surgery to repair the damage — a complex and high-risk operation that will take place in the coming days. While he’s in the hospital and for at least two months after, Brad will be unable to work as he focuses on rest and recovery. Mary and his children will be by his side through it all, staying nearby in Chicago during the hospital stay and supporting his recovery at home.

This GoFundMe has been created to help ease the financial burden of time away from work, medical bills, travel and other expenses. Brad and Mary are the proud parents of four children — two of whom are still living at home — and the months ahead will require all of their energy and focus to be on healing.

The Schneider family has already felt the immense love and support of their community once, and they are deeply grateful for any continued generosity during this difficult time. Whether you're able to give, share or keep Brad and the family in your thoughts, every bit of support means the world.

Thank you for supporting us again.