In May of 2024, our lives changed forever. Fred suffered a sudden cardiac arrest. His heart stopped multiple times, and in those terrifying moments, he died more than once. Because of the incredible team at MyMichigan Health, Fred was given a second chance at life. He was diagnosed with ventricular tachycardia and received an ICD, an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, a device designed to save his life if his heart ever goes into a dangerous rhythm again. For a while, life felt normal again. We were grateful. We were hopeful.

Then, on April 30,2026, everything changed again. Fred started feeling dizzy. It passed quickly, and without chest pain or shortness of breath, it did not seem alarming. But just 30 minutes later, his ICD delivered a shock. We called 911, and he was rushed to the ER. What followed is something no one should ever have to endure. Fred’s heart would not stabilize. His ICD shocked him again and again and again, 25 times in total. He was awake for all of it. He felt every single shock. To give his body a chance to rest and regain control, doctors had to sedate and intubate him.

Right now, Fred is in the ICU at MyMichigan Health, surrounded by an incredible team who are taking amazing care of him. He is stable, and his heart rhythm and pulse are currently back to normal, but we do not yet know what the next steps will be. What we do know is this: the road ahead is going to be long. Fred is unable to work, and I do not know when I will be able to return either. Like so many families, we are facing not only the emotional weight of this situation, but the financial strain that comes with it. The funds raised will help us cover mounting medical bills, everyday living expenses, and support Fred’s recovery while we are both unable to work.

Asking for help is not something that comes easy to us. We have always been the ones to show up for others, the ones who give, who help, who support. That is who Fred is. He has the kindest heart, the kind of soul that would do anything for anyone, without hesitation. Now, we are asking, humbly, for help. If you are able to give, pray, or share this page, it means more to us than we could ever put into words. Every bit of support helps us focus on what matters most right now: Fred’s healing and getting him back home where he belongs.