Kevin Collins Memorial Giving

My sisters and I are sharing the story of our brother, Kevin Collins. Kevin never met a stranger. He is funny and charming, and a great friend, son, uncle, and brother to his three sisters. Anyone who knows Kevin, knows that his pride and joy is his cat Binky, who has her own TikTok channel and makes frequent appearances on other social media channels. Kevin is a US Air Force veteran and is a mobile crane operator in the greater Charlotte NC area. He also loves being on the water and lives in his small houseboat, on a marina on Lake Norman. As CEO of Three Bees Candles & Bath, Kevin became known this past year as the ‘King of Candles’ for his amazing soy candles, which are sold in markets and shops around the area, at pop up shows and from his small shop in Mooresville. Kevin loves making people smile with his great smelling candles and talks often about all the friends he has made through that journey. Known as a giver who is always the first to step up and help, Kevin loves his friends and family more than anyone we know--and this week, we have found that we’re all continuing to learn from him. Today Kevin is fighting for his life – here is his situation:

Kevin had a ruptured aneurysm and massive brain bleed on Monday afternoon, 8/5/24 and was airlifted to CMC Main in Charlotte NC. He underwent two brain surgeries: one to close the aneurysm and stop the bleeding, and another to open his skull to allow room for his swollen brain. He is currently in a coma while they wait for the brain swelling to reduce. The neurosurgery team at CMC has been fabulous. They share some not great statistics and that those who survive this kind of injury have a long road to recovery. But they do not know Kevin !

Seventeen years ago, Kevin was in an industrial accident that severely injured his back and pelvis, which was literally pushed out the back of him. He was airlifted then too, and family was called in as we were told he would likely not survive the night. Not only did he survive, but he also beat every odd. After months in ICU and rehab, he returned to his dream job as a Crane Operator.

Right now, Kevin needs all the prayers and support he can get to meet this challenge. For all of you that have asked how to help contribute to the massive medical expense as well as ongoing expenses until he is stable and we’re able to assess next steps, we have created this GoFundMe. Any donation, no matter how small, will make a tremendous difference. If you cannot donate, please continue praying and sending healing thoughts. We also appreciate anyone that can share this campaign with your network.

Thank you for taking the time to read our story. We appreciate your kindness, prayers, and support during this incredibly difficult time. Together, we can help Kevin through this challenging journey.

We are updating his situation on CaringBridge. Here is the link.