Support Shane's Miraculous Heart Recovery

Life can bring many challenges. As many of you know, on the eve of August 29th, Shane was transferred from his home to Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital in Panama City, FL, where he was immediately taken to the cardiac Cath lab. Lori later learned that Shane suffered a "Widow Maker" heart attack, also known as an ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), which grossly affected a large portion of his heart. The first miracle is that he survived. They are incredibly grateful to the cardiovascular and the fantastic ICU staff at Ascension Sacred Heart Bay in Panama City for saving his life. The survival rate for this type of infarction is 12 % when it occurs outside of a hospital or advanced care center and only 25% if occurring inside a medical facility, and the distance between their home and the facility was transferred to 58 miles. He was later transferred via flight wing to the ICU at Shands Heart and Vascular Center in Gainesville, where he received a higher level of care.

Shane remains in the ICU because of the complications he experienced in what should have been a fatal event. For those of you who know Shane, know that tough times are not new to him. He is a fighter, and he has defied the odds of serious illness before. In his 20's, he battled Guillain Burre and suffered paralysis because of it, he was told that he'd likely not walk again. Before this event, Shane got up and went to work daily. Due to the side effects of treatment, he was plagued with another diagnosis affecting his liver and was not expected to recover. He overcame that hurdle and never thought he would be faced with the seriousness of another circumstance that would threaten his life. Shane saw other specialists but did not have a cardiovascular history. He also does not smoke or drink, which is perplexing to the physicians taking care of him. These risk factors would explain the nature of such a traumatic event at such a young age.

Lori has been a nurse for 25 years and has been by his side. She is very thankful that she was at home at the time of the incident. She and Jacob did all they could for him while waiting for EMS for support. They are all very thankful for the love, support and prayer support along with visits from amazing people. It has meant so much to them. They are fully aware that God has a purpose and a plan for their lives and that the situation is in the palm of his mighty hand.

They have undoubtedly felt God's presence and peace. Shane and Lori both have an amazing support system through family and friends. They are humbled by outpouring of love and support from family and friends who stepped up in their need to help in any way they could. The visitors that came to offer a hug and to show support have been instrumental in coping throughout this traumatic event. Lori tells me that one of the verses that resonated with her during his initial stay in the ICU was from the book of John, "Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Fathers house are many rooms. If it were no so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also". These verses brought comfort and peace in knowing that God knows the final outcomes and we are to fully trust him. He is there to comfort our weary hearts and to prepare a way regardless of the outcomes.

The funds raised will go straight to Shane, Lori, and Jacob to alleviate the financial burden of an extended ICU stay, transport, next steps in his healing journey, as well as time away from work for both of them. Every bit helps to support them so that their efforts can be focused on Shane's recovery.

They are thankful to the Lord for all of you for loving on them during this very difficult time. They both would appreciate your prayers as they continue to navigate the days ahead.

Thank you,

Lindsey