Help Support My Dad’s Recovery

Our family’s world was turned upside down when my dad, Gil, suffered a massive heart attack that quickly led to a series of serious complications including cardiogenic shock, heart failure, organ decline, arrhythmia, panic attacks/anxiety, just to name a few. Since then, he has spent days in the ICU, been transferred to a specialized heart hospital, and has now undergone open-heart surgery to have an LVAD device implanted to help his heart function. While surgery went well, as with most serious surgeries, the are a few things the doctors are keeping a close eye on, but we are hopeful. 

If you know my dad, you love him. He’s funny, caring, and one of the hardest-working people you’ll ever meet. He’s the kind of person who shows up for everyone, no matter what, and never asks for anything in return.

This also isn’t the first time he’s had to fight through serious health challenges. He has battled severe diabetes, lived with an extremely low heart rate that led to needing a pacemaker, and suffered a stroke July 2024 that took away his ability to continue working. Even through all of that, he has continued to push forward with strength and determination.

There were moments during this process where we were told that if he hadn’t made it to the hospital when he did, he may not be here, and we watched as his medical team provided life-saving care more than once. We are incredibly grateful for the doctors, nurses, and first responders who have cared for him, helped get him through surgery, and will continue to support him in his recovery.

After everything he has already been through… especially having to stop working last year the last thing we want is for him to carry the weight of financial stress during this time. Right now, his only focus should be healing and recovery.

While we are focused on his healing, this has also brought a wave of unexpected financial strain on my mom and our family. Even with insurance, we are currently facing:

• Out-of-pocket medical costs related to his surgery and hospital care

• Expenses for LVAD-related equipment and ongoing medical supplies, including dressing supplies, cleaning materials, and secure holders for the device

• Lost wages as my mom and our family take time off work — not only during this initial emergency, but also throughout his hospital stay, the weeks of recovery to follow, and the frequent follow-up appointments after discharge

• The need for 24/7 care at home for at least the first month after he is discharged

• Home adjustments to make daily life safer and easier for him, such as modifying his shower setup since his device cannot get wet

• Everyday costs that come with having a loved one in critical condition, including meals at the hospital, and gas for constant travel back and forth

So many people have reached out asking how they can help, and this is one way to support my mom as she navigates this incredibly difficult time while also caring for my dad.

If you are able to donate, share, or keep our family in your prayers, we are so grateful. Every bit of support means more than we can put into words.

Right now, our focus is on helping him recover, regain his strength, and adjust to life with the LVAD. We are taking things one day at a time and holding onto hope for continued healing.

Thank you for standing with our family during one of the hardest seasons of our lives.