Hi,

This isn’t easy for us to write. Our family is usually very private, and asking for help isn’t something we’re comfortable with—but we’ve reached a point where we simply can’t do this alone anymore.

Our beloved father has been diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) - a rare and serious autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the nerves. It came on suddenly and has turned our world upside down.

Right now, he is in the ICU on a ventilator. He’s already undergone intensive treatments including IVIG and plasma exchange, and a tracheostomy. GBS has caused full-body paralysis, and recovery often takes months to years, requiring long-term rehabilitation and care.

About Our Dad

If you know our dad, you know he is the life of the party - funny, outgoing, and always full of wild stories and adventures. He’s the guy who will talk to anyone and somehow make them feel like a lifelong friend by the end of the conversation. He’s also one of the most generous, kind-hearted people you’ll ever meet - the first to help others, always giving without expecting anything in return. He has spent his life lifting others up—and now he needs a little help himself.

Why We’re Asking for Help

Our parents live two hours away from the hospital, and we’ve been covering hotel stays so our mom can be close to him every day. She’s unable to work right now, and we’re all rotating in and out to help her and be with our dad—flying, driving, taking time off work, and covering costs out of pocket.

We are committed to getting him into the best rehabilitation program possible, and long-term recovery means months of housing, medical, travel, and caregiving expenses.

This situation is not sustainable for us alone. We wish we didn’t have to ask—but we know that even the smallest bit of help can make a huge difference.

How Funds Will Be Used

• Housing near the hospital for our mom

• Travel costs for family caregivers

• Lost income while our mom is out of work

• Future rehabilitation and long-term care expenses

• Any medical costs not covered by insurance

How You Can Help

If you’re able to contribute—no matter the amount—we are deeply grateful. If you can’t donate, please consider sharing this page. Your love, prayers, and encouragement mean more than we can say.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

~ The family of Craig Cooper