On January 4, 2026, our lives changed in an instant. My husband, who has dedicated over 20 years as a volunteer fire chief, woke up feeling unwell. We thought it was just the flu, but as the day went on, his symptoms became more alarming—trouble moving his left leg, slurred speech, and high blood pressure. Despite my urging, he insisted on helping with two fundraisers for our fire department before resting. Later that evening, I discovered a severe infection in his foot. His toe and the side of his foot had turned black, and I rushed him to the ER. The doctors found he was borderline septic, with his kidneys already affected. What we thought was a diabetic ulcer turned out to be a burn that had gone unnoticed due to his neuropathy, leading to a dangerous infection. He was admitted to the SICU, and while his kidneys thankfully recovered, he suffered a stroke caused by poor blood flow and clots from his wound. We are still in the hospital, waiting for surgery that will likely result in the amputation of his toe and part of his foot. I recently started a new career and do not yet qualify for PTO or FMLA, so I am unable to work during this time. We also care for his mother and my father, who both live with us, making our household bills and expenses even more overwhelming. The funds raised will go directly toward our bills and my husband's medical expenses, which Medicaid will not fully cover. We are so thankful for any support. My husband has always given of himself to help others, and now, as we face this difficult time, we are deeply grateful for any help our community can offer.