Forest Colstrom grew up in Arkansaw, Wisconsin, graduated from Arkansaw High School, and attended UW-River Falls. After graduating from UW–River Falls, Forest moved to Los Angeles, where he earned his Master’s degree from UCLA. He has been an upstanding citizen and has worked one or two jobs for most of his adult life, demonstrating a strong work ethic and deep sense of responsibility.
On September 16, 2025, Forest was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare and life-threatening autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the peripheral nerves. The condition causes rapid, ascending muscle weakness, tingling, and, in severe cases, paralysis. Although recovery is possible—and most patients do recover—rehabilitation often takes many months or even years.
Since the onset of GBS, Forest has been unable to move his legs, arms, hands, or fingers. While he retains sensation, he cannot physically move his limbs. He is unable to perform even the simplest daily tasks independently—such as using a remote control, scratching an itch, ringing for assistance, typing, texting, or reliably using the phone. He depends entirely on caregivers, family, and friends for basic needs.
Forest initially received excellent care at Mayo Clinic in Rochester. However, his insurance provider required that he return to California, where he was transferred to a skilled nursing facility. There, he began limited therapy and made encouraging progress, standing with assistance and regaining slight movement in a few fingers. Unfortunately, his insurance company determined that he had reached a “plateau” and discontinued coverage for further care.
Since then, Forest has faced repeated disruptions in his living and care arrangements. He briefly moved to an assisted living facility at his own expense but was forced to leave due to unsafe conditions. He is now residing in another facility, also self-funded. During this time, he has not consistently received the physical therapy that is critical to his recovery, potentially prolonging his rehabilitation.
Although grievances have been filed, coverage issues remain unresolved. Forest may soon be able to resume therapy; however, transportation to and from treatment is not a cost covered by his insurance company and would cost approximately $700 per day—an expense that is unsustainable without assistance.
Despite these extraordinary challenges, Forest has remained remarkably composed and determined. He diligently participates in every aspect of his recovery plan. Yet the emotional toll of navigating insurance disputes and seeking assistance—without the ability to type, text, or independently use a phone—adds an additional burden to an already devastating diagnosis.
Forest’s physicians at Mayo Clinic remain confident in his potential for meaningful recovery. With consistent therapy, encouragement, and financial support, he has a strong chance of regaining independence. Without assistance, however, he risks exhausting the resources he has worked hard to build over the past 40 years.
If you are in a position to help, we respectfully ask that you consider contributing to Forest’s medical and rehabilitation expenses. Any amount would be deeply appreciated and will directly support his continued care and recovery.
We are profoundly grateful for your generosity and compassion. Updates will be shared as Forest progresses, and we look forward to the day when he can return to Wisconsin so we can celebrate his recovery together.
Thank you for your consideration and support.
God bless you.