On Wednesday 2/26/25 my family was harshly reminded how fragile life is. My brother Mark was on his way to work when he felt a “pop” in his head, he called Christina and let her know something was wrong. Miraculously, he drove himself to the hospital where they found he was having a hemorrhagic stroke. He started declining and within a matter of hours he was barely arousable and lost function of the left side of his body. We were told his brain swelling is increasing and he needs an emergency hemi-craniectomy.

We did not understand how this could be happening. Our lives were rapidly turned upside down. Mark was not previously diagnosed with any conditions that could have indicated that he was at risk for a stroke. He is only 31 years old.

Mark is currently in critical condition in ICU. His hemi-craniectomy went well but he will be returning to surgery in a couple of weeks when his brain swelling has improved so they can take care of the area that was bleeding.

Those of you who know my brother, or know of him, know how resilient and strong he is. If anyone can make it through this, it’s Mark. Just over two years ago he pulled through a motorcycle accident where he suffered a shattered pelvis and injured leg. He barely got back on his feet this past year and was finally able to bring stability to his family once again.

His wife Christina has been at his side through it all and we have strong hopes that Mark will pull through this again. His wife and three year old son are his world and there is no reality that we can comprehend without Mark in it.

Any amount you can contribute will make a significant difference in Mark’s recovery journey. Your support will not only ease the financial strain on his family but also provide the encouragement he needs to overcome this.

Whether you’re able to donate, pray or keep Mark in your thoughts, we appreciate it all. Thank you and please hug your loved ones a little tighter.

UPDATE 2/28/25: Mark is still in ICU but has been extubated. He is having difficulty speaking and is in pain but is able to breathe without the ventilator. Still awaiting plans for his next surgery.

UPDATE 3/7/25: Mark is still mostly sleeping, but he can have brief conversations when he does wake up. The brain swelling hasn’t gone down as much as they expect at this point so he is back on a fluid to help. Once the swelling has gone down more, then he can have his angiogram so they can plan for his next surgery. He is getting his nutrition through tube feedings. He misses his family and friends.