Life can change in a split second, and on May 14, 2025, mine did.

That day, I suffered severe injuries to my face, including multiple broken bones in my jaw and nose, along with the loss and damage of several teeth, including my front teeth. I was even told I would likely lose more later on. What followed wasn’t just physical pain, it was emotional shock, uncertainty, and financial strain that I never imagined I’d be facing.

Since then, I have been in intensive care and rehabilitation. I have had emergency hospital visits, urgent oral surgery, and ongoing speech and occupational therapy among other appointments. For months I have been waiting for my bones to heal enough to even begin the major reconstructive work I need.

I was told I needed to wait six months from the injury to let my jaw heal before I can have the major surgeries needed to fix my mouth and, hopefully, eventually get my missing teeth back. That wait is now over. On November 17, I will have surgery, including septoplasty, rhinoplasty, and bone grafting for my damaged nose. Shortly thereafter, I will begin the numerous dental and jaw procedures as this is not something that can be fixed in a few visits. These treatments are essential to restore function and prevent long-term complications.

You never realize how much you take for granted until you lose it. Something as simple as eating a sandwich, biting into an apple, or speaking clearly has become a daily challenge. Missing many front and back teeth makes it difficult to eat the foods I used to enjoy and affects my speech, which is especially painful for me as someone who speaks publicly and stays active with the American Legion Family, my Masonic brethren, and so many other people and groups that I love.

It has been heartbreaking to step back from obligations, decline events, and miss time with people who mean so much to me. I will have to miss even more in the months ahead as I continue this long recovery.

Unfortunately, despite having health and dental insurance, many of these critical procedures are not covered. This has left me facing overwhelming out-of-pocket medical and dental costs that far exceed what I’m able to manage on my own. I was off work for months recovering from the initial injury, and after my November 17 surgery, I will again be off work for weeks to recover, with more time off expected for the procedures that follow.

I’m not someone who asks for help easily. But today, I’m humbly reaching out to my community, family, my brethren and friends, and any kind-hearted strangers for support. Your donation, no matter the size, will go directly toward these uncovered medical bills, the surgeries for my nose, jaw, and mouth, and the necessary rehabilitation. It will also help me cover living expenses while I am out of work again, which is an enormous relief.

Your generosity will not only help me heal physically but also lift an enormous weight off my shoulders during one of the most challenging times of my life.

If you aren't in a position to donate, simply sharing this campaign with your network would mean the world to me.

Thank you so much for your support.