Support Trace After Brain Surgery

Good people!

Usually I am raising money for an old theatre, but today it is for an old stagehand.

The fella pictured here is William Nailen, better known to the world as my brother Trace.

Right now he and Michele Nailen are in some rough weather and our family could use your help. Our goal is to raise $5,500 to cover some unexpected medical and household expenses.

On Friday, Dec. 30, Trace had a subdural hematoma and emergency brain surgery. Over the weekend, he was very much himself — witty, lucid, and silver-tongued. Then we had three miserable and literally dumbfounding days. Although his CT scan and MRI both looked good, he was experiencing aphasia and temporarily lost most of his language. On Monday, the only word he could say (for 12 hours) was “actually.”

He is on the mend now, saying “yes,” “no,” “OK,” “thank you,” “music is wonderful,” and, yesterday, to my father, “Put a pin in it.”

Soon he will be discharged from the hospital and begin months of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. This weekend we have a lot to do to prepare for in-home care and other new adventures.

Any scratch you give will go toward household modifications, out-of-pocket medical expenses, transportation, groceries, and pet supplies.

Our family appreciates your prayers and good wishes oh-so-much.

Thank you! We love you! Zang!