Update: Carl has been moved to a step down unit!!! We are definitely taking steps forward in his recovery but there have been some set backs as well. They are still considering a permanent pacemaker. As of now he has a temporary external one but his heart rate is still are all over the place with the afib. After surgery, Carl experienced a stroke that affected both sides of the brain in 4 different areas. His speech is getting clearer HOWEVER he’s not making sense. They are unclear if his delusions are neurological or from the time spent in induced coma and recovery in the ICU unit. Paralysis on the left side is another major concern. He has recovered some movement but he cannot use his left side. They have with assistance sat him on the side of the bed and got him to stand on his feet twice but he is unable to do either without support. We still don’t know how permanent these issues are going to be. The hope is that with time, some of these things will resolve. Sandi has been one hell of a trooper and has not left his side since it happened. So please know that your donations are going to her stay and the bills as they start to stack up including the $10 a day parking fee, hotel fee, food, and personal necessities as she is over 5 hours one way from her home and commuting back and forth is not feasible.

On June 19th, Carl suffered a life-threatening rupture of his ascending aorta and had to be life flighted to UAB for emergency surgery. He is now facing a long recovery in the hospital, with doctors estimating he will need to stay for at least the next 30 days. The full extent of the damage to his body is still unknown, and his care plan moving forward remains uncertain. This has been an incredibly stressful and emotional time for our family as we wait for more answers and hope for Carl’s recovery.

My mom, Sandi, has traveled five hours to be by Carl’s side at UAB, leaving behind her daily life and responsibilities. The costs of travel, lodging, and meals are quickly adding up, and we are also managing the care of animals back home while Sandi is away. These unexpected expenses are creating a significant financial strain on our family during an already difficult time.

We are reaching out for support to help cover these urgent needs so Sandi can focus on being with Carl and supporting his recovery. Any contribution will make a difference and help ease the burden as we navigate the weeks ahead. Thank you for keeping Carl and Sandi in your thoughts and for any help you can provide.