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Meet Fred and Viv Schoolcraft and read their story:

Fred and Viv were finally on their way — driving toward their first long-awaited vacation in years. It was meant to be a time of rest, joy, and reconnection. But on the second night of their trip, everything changed. Fred began feeling unwell in their hotel room, and by morning, it was clear he needed urgent medical attention. Viv called 911, and within moments, Fred was rushed to a small local hospital. Doctors quickly placed him on life support and arranged for a helicopter to transport him to a larger facility in Richmond, Virginia.

For four agonizing days, Fred lay unresponsive, connected to a respirator while doctors ran every test imaginable — MRIs, CT scans, EEGs, bloodwork, and a lumbar puncture. Yet, no clear answers emerged.

Through it all, Viv never left his side. Daughters Joy and Julie joined her for several days, offering strength and love. The three of them have been staying at the Reinhart Guest House near the hospital — a peaceful and welcoming place, but even at a reduced rate, the costs are adding up.

A week after the crisis began, Fred miraculously awakened. He’s alert, aware, and able to speak — and he’s asking to go home. But his body is still fragile. He’s been moved off of the ICU floor and will need occupational and physical therapy, and an undetermined stay at a rehabilitation facility.

Once Fred is moved out of St. Mary’s Hospital Viv will no longer be eligible to remain at Reinhart House. Going forward she’ll be at the mercy of expensive hotel costs. Her lodging and meals have already reached over $1000. Anticipating a two-week stay at a rehab before Fred will be allowed to travel those expenses for Viv could reach another $2500. Costs for flights for Fred and Viv to fly home (the long drive would be very difficult for Fred) and the expense to get their car back to Syracuse are uncertain at this point but could reach another $800 - $1000.

We’re setting the GoFundMe goal at $4,000 to help ease the financial burden and bring Fred home.

Fred is a proud Vietnam veteran who served his country with honor. Now, he needs our help. Please consider donating to support this brave soldier and his devoted family as they navigate this unexpected journey. Every contribution brings Fred one step closer to home and his loved ones.