Meet the Gardiner Family❤️

David, Alyssa and their 3 children. A family that is always the first to help in our community at any chance they get. It’s our turn to lend a hand to them and offer support during their challenging times.

In late 2023, life changed overnight for David and his family. After a sudden car accident, doctors discovered something far more frightening than the crash itself — a brain tumor. In March 2025, David underwent major brain surgery to remove it. Relieved the tumor and debilitating symptoms were gone, recovery has been long, complicated, and life-altering.

Since the surgery, David has suffered intense seizures — episodes that are terrifying for both him and those around him. Despite multiple medications and adjustments, his seizures still are not under control. Because these episodes happen without warning, David cannot be safely left alone and he’s unable to return to work for an undetermined amount of time. The 3 young children (9yrs, 10yrs and 14yrs old) cared for him during the summer months, experiencing several traumatic events while their mother tried to do all she could keeping the household afloat. Unfortunately this isn’t an option anymore with returning to school.

This has forced Alyssa into an impossible situation.

Alyssa was already balancing working full-time, caring for their three busy children, and attending nursing school. But as David’s seizures increased and his medical needs recently became more demanding, she has no choice but to stop working for the time being, so she can care for him around the clock. She now manages his medications, medical appointments, seizure monitoring, therapy, daily tasks, the needs of their children, the constant worry of David’s next seizure— all while trying to keep the household running and continue her education when she can.

Their only income has now vanished, and the financial pressure is becoming unmanageable.

This family is beyond exhausted. They are fighting every day. But they cannot do it alone.

This month alone, there are currently at least 10 bills for Gold Cross Ambulance, 4 separate hospital stays—many that resulted in multiple night stays (he is currently hospitalized right now after yet another episode) more EEGs, MRIs, testing, traveling for speciality clinics. It feels like it will never end. My hope for this fundraiser is to give the Gardiner Family some breathing room. The Holidays are fast approaching and expenses continue to pile up. These 3 beautiful kids have had their reality disrupted and life overturned with no warning. A little sense of normalcy during what should be a joyful time of year, after facing many events no child should witness. While we wish we could take away all the pain this family has endured, that just isn’t possible. What we CAN do is show them how much our community cares, offer words of support and acts of kindness. Please rally with me to show them they are NOT in this fight alone.

Your support will help with:

• Mounting medical bills, hospital visits, and ongoing neurological care

• Medication costs and seizure management needs

• Household expenses now that both David and Alyssa are unable to work

• Gas, groceries, and daily necessities

• Stability during a time when everything feels uncertain

No family prepares for something like this. Any amount you can give — whether it’s $5 or $50 — makes a real difference. And if you can’t donate, sharing their story helps more than you know. There is also a MealTrain for The Gardiners if you feel more compelled to help in another way!

Thank you for standing with this family during one of the hardest seasons of their lives. Your generosity brings hope, relief, and a lifeline when they need it most.