Next week, my nephew Jack will undergo a significant brain surgery as a treatment for epilepsy, at the Children's Hospital in Madison, WI. Jack is 16 years old, thoughtful and caring, and a great big brother to his sister Leta. Jack has decided to donate the portion of his brain tissue removed to science, to advance research into epilepsy. Jack is currently a Life Scout through Boy Scouts of America, the second highest rank to Eagle Scout.

I've started this fundraiser for my brother's family to help offset costs associated with this surgery and treatment. Starting next week, Jack will have to be admitted to the children's hospital for a minimum of a week up to Christmas. My brother, his wife, and their daughter will go to Madison from where they live outside of Milwaukee, to stay with Jack for a week out of a hotel. For this period of time, and afterwards through recovery and follow-up visits, they will have increased transportation costs, food costs, and medical and prescription drug costs. I know any support gained through this fundraiser will have a huge impact on their family, especially as this falls on the holiday season this year. My brother is a paramedic and his wife is a nurse. Earlier this year, my niece was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, which has also had an unexpected financial impact on a monthly recurring basis.

I can't think of anyone more deserving of some support right now than Jack and his family. Any amount helps, and our family greatly appreciates the generosity.