The week after Christmas, my dad traveled to Michigan for vacation. While there, he became very sick. One evening, my cousins Dustin and Kelli could hear in his voice that something was terribly wrong. Without hesitation, they drove 2.5 hours to get him and take him to the hospital.
When he arrived, his oxygen level was at 80%. Doctors quickly discovered pneumonia and multiple blood clots in his lungs. During additional testing, they saw something concerning on his heart. What they later found was shocking — his valve muscle tore away from his heart, along with evidence of a recent heart attack. The fact that he was still alive with a torn valve is the first of many miracles in this story.
He was intubated, and conversations about emergency surgery began. Days later, he underwent a grueling nine-hour surgery that included a quadruple bypass and heart valve replacement. During surgery, he required multiple rounds of CPR. Just getting him to the operating room in time was nothing short of miraculous.
Throughout this journey, we have seen what we can only describe as angels disguised as nurses. Every detail — every provision, every small breakthrough — has felt like a “God wink.” We know without question that God has been with him every step of the way.
Today marks over 50 days in the ICU.
While we continue to witness miracles, some healing will take time. During CPR, my dad suffered a spinal stroke and currently cannot move or feel his legs. He has also battled shingles on top of everything else his body has endured. The road ahead will require extensive rehabilitation and long-term care.
My amazing stepmom has not left his side. She has put her life and responsibilities on hold to be present for him through every moment of this fight.
In another answered prayer, my dad is being flown home to Concord, where he will continue care in an acute rehabilitation facility. However, insurance details are still being worked out, and the medical flight was self-pay — costing $19,000.
The medical bills from over 50 days in ICU, multiple procedures, surgery, rehabilitation, and travel are overwhelming and continue to grow.
My dad and stepmom are hardworking business owners. They come from a generation where asking for help doesn’t come easily. So I am asking on their behalf.
If you feel led to give — whether large or small — it would mean more than we can express. If you cannot give financially, we deeply appreciate your prayers and sharing this page.
We are believing that the same God who has carried him this far will continue to provide, heal, and restore.
Thank you for being part of this miracle story.