My name is Heidi (Mistele) Zimmermann and my brother, Rhydian Mistele, needs your help.

On Friday, December 5, 2025, Rhydian called 911 requesting an ambulance. He arrived at the emergency room at Gunderson Lutheran Medical Center, where he was found to be in sepsis and needing surgery to remove necrotic tissue. Our parents, Joe & Enid, made it to the hospital five minutes after Rhydian was taken to surgery. After surgery, the doctor spoke to Joe & Enid. They were warned that most people don’t recover from Rhydian’s condition. That Friday night was the worst night you could imagine, waiting on a call from the hospital but hoping with all your might that it doesn’t come. Finally falling asleep, then waking with a start only to remember what’s happening.

Miraculously, Rhydian made it through the night and that Saturday morning had another surgery. With many loved ones showing up to cheer him on, Rhyn started responding to treatment even more. On Sunday morning, he was extubated and began to “wake up” - he was even able to watch the Bears game!

Since that first weekend in the hospital, Rhyn has been moved out of ICU and has had surgery every other weekday. In between surgeries, he gets visits from physical therapy and occupational therapy, as well as visits from family and friends.

At this moment, we don't know just how long Rhyn will have to remain in the hospital. After he's discharged, a rehab-type stay is probable. Because of this, he will be unable to work for the foreseeable future. This means his regular bills and expenses are going unpaid. And while he does have insurance through his employer, it's still uncertain how much of his hospital stay, surgeries, and treatments will have to be paid out of pocket.

Our family knows how hard it is to ask for help, but Rhydian really needs it. We've also seen how beloved Rhyn is to his family and friends - it's extraordinary! Please help us reduce the strain on Rhyn's recovery. Thank you!