As many of you know, Russell is facing another serious medical setback, and he’s more frustrated than ever.

What we believed was a simple kidney stone turned out to be something far more serious: a severe infection that had been silently brewing in his unused colon. That colon had been preserved in hopes of a future pull-through surgery, but those plans have changed. In an unexpected turn, his entire unused colon had to be removed. To make matters even harder, a portion of his bladder was also taken due to complications during surgery.

What we thought would be a short hospital stay has now turned into an extended recovery and more time away from work. We’re a one-income family already stretched thin and while we’ve always found a way to push through, this round has hit especially hard.

I’ve created this GoFundMe for anyone who would like to help with the added costs, including gas, meals, and bills, as I try to be there for him full-time. Please don’t feel obligated, but I had to put this out there. Russell needs both his mom and dad right now, and I simply can’t be in two places at once while also keeping up with school and home responsibilities.

Thank you for the love, support, and kindness, in whatever form it comes. ❤️