Hi, my name is Matthew, and I’m creating this fundraiser on behalf of my close friends Jeremy and Cortney Knutson.

I’ve known Jeremy since we were both 18. He was the first real friend I made when I moved to Minnesota, and from day one, we’ve been like brothers. Over the years, we’ve walked through a lot of life together, and I couldn’t ask for a more loyal friend. He’s even the godfather to my son, and someone I trust deeply.

Now, Jeremy and Cortney are walking through something no parent should have to face, and they need our help.

On June 13th, Jeremy and Cortney Knutson welcomed their son, Tucker, into the world. But immediately after birth, he was diagnosed with a rare bacterial infection in his lungs and pneumonia. He was rushed to the NICU at Sanford Children’s Hospital in Sioux Falls, where he's been fighting for his life from his very first breath.

This wasn’t the homecoming they imagined. Instead of bonding at home as a family of four, they've been thrown into survival mode.

Cortney has remained in Sioux Falls full-time to stay close to Tucker while he receives critical care. Thankfully, she’s been able to stay at the Ronald McDonald House, but fuel, meals, and personal necessities still add up quickly.

Jeremy commutes 3.5 hours at the end of each week to be with them, balancing work, worry, and long drives just to get a few precious moments with his son.

Their oldest son, Lane (3 years old), has been cared for by family members to ease the pressure. But he’s two hours away from both parents, and they only get to see him once a week. That separation has been one of the hardest parts of this entire journey.

This fundraiser is here to help lighten the load so Jeremy and Cortney can focus their energy on their boys, especially Tucker, who continues to fight with everything he’s got.

Your support will help cover:

Fuel for Jeremy’s weekly 7-hour round trips

Meals and essential living costs for Cortney in Sioux Falls

Care-related needs for Lane while separated from his parents

Uncovered medical expenses and post-NICU recovery costs

Basic daily needs while the family lives apart

The Knutsons didn’t ask for this path, but they’re walking it with strength, love, and resilience. If you can give, thank you. If not, sharing this page or sending a message of encouragement still means a great deal.

Let’s help keep this family strong, connected, and close to Tucker while he heals.

Matthew Gendron