The past few months have been the hardest time of our lives. My boyfriend went in for surgery to remove a cervical spinal cord tumor located between the C2 and C4 vertebrae in his neck. This area of the spine controls signals to the diaphragm, breathing, and the movement and strength of the arms and legs.

What was supposed to be recovery quickly turned into almost five months in the hospital. During that time he experienced respiratory failure, two cardiac arrests (physically dying), a tracheostomy, time on a ventilator, and being intubated twice. Because of how high the surgery was on his spinal cord, it affected his breathing and his ability to move, leaving him with severe weakness, immobility, and paralysis in parts of his body. There were moments where we truly did not know if he was going to make it. But he did. And every day since then has been about fighting to rebuild the life that was suddenly taken from him.

Right now he is working through intense physical therapy to relearn things most of us never think twice about like talking clearly, breathing comfortably, eating, showering, and walking again.

Because of the severity of his paralysis and immobility, I also had to step into the role of full time caregiver, advocate, and partner in his recovery. Many everyday things are still very difficult or impossible for him to do on his own, so I have had to put my own work and business on hold to be there for him through this. Because of everything that has happened he has not been able to work, and I have not been able to run my business the way I normally would. The medical bills, therapy, equipment, and everyday living costs have added up quickly and become overwhelming.

So many people have asked how they can help and this is the best way right now. If you feel called to donate or simply share this with others it truly means more than we can put into words. Thank you for taking a moment to read our story and for supporting us as he continues fighting his way back ❤️.