Help Gary Elam Fight for His Life After Unexpected Surgery Complications

What was supposed to be a routine surgery has turned into a life-threatening fight for survival, and our family is asking for help and prayers during the most difficult time of our lives.

On Monday, March 9, my brother-in-law went to St. Joe East for a scheduled gastric sleeve surgery. At first, everything appeared to go well. But about an hour after the surgery, his blood pressure suddenly dropped, and doctors quickly realized something was wrong. He was rushed back into surgery where they discovered he was bleeding internally. The surgical team worked to stop the bleeding and he received blood transfusions.

The following day, doctors discovered he was still bleeding. He had to undergo another emergency exploratory surgery, where they found yet another internal bleed. Once again, he required additional blood transfusions.

Due to the seriousness of his condition, he was transferred to St. Joe Main and admitted to the ICU. Right now, he is fighting for his life. He is currently on a ventilator, receiving 24/7 dialysis, and remains in critical condition while doctors continue doing everything they can to stabilize him.

What was supposed to be just one week off work has now turned into a long and uncertain medical journey. My brother-in-law is the sole provider for his family, and these sudden complications mean he will be unable to work for an extended period of time.

My sister has been by his side at the hospital every moment she can, supporting him and hoping for healing. Their son knows that his dad is very sick, but he does not yet understand the full extent of what is happening. Like any child, he just wants his dad home.

We started this GoFundMe to help ease some of the financial burden this family is now facing — including medical expenses, household bills, and the loss of income during this incredibly difficult time.

If you feel led to give, any donation — no matter how small — will make a difference for their family. If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing this fundraiser and keeping them in your prayers.

Our family truly believes in the power of prayer and that God performs miracles every day. Thank you for standing with them, lifting them up, and helping carry them through this unimaginable time.