Helping Dad (Ted Atwell) with Medical Expenses

Dad's story: My dad (Ted Atwell) suffered a stroke in Destin, Florida in February.  His right side was paralyzed and he was rushed to the hospital for tests, MRI’s and medication.  The next day he seemed to have recovered and the doctors said he could return home to St. Louis the following day.  That night Dad had another stroke, and this time it did not go back to normal.  He remained in Florida for several weeks for rehab and further medications and tests.  Too weak and unstable to travel by car, his sister Louise paid for medical transport from Florida to Missouri.   Dad received a few more weeks of treatment at SSM DePaul Rehab Center in Bridgeton, followed by daytime rehab sessions and then returning home each night.  It has been a very slow, exhausting and expensive process.  His partner Doris has been by his side as much as possible, and is has been doubly exhausting for her – physically and emotionally.  Dad hasn’t been able to work, and between the medical bills, regular bills and paying Louise back for the very expensive medical transportation from Florida, Doris is really struggling.   My father is no stranger to life’s challenges.  He was born totally blind, but it never stopped him from living a productive and full life.  He has been employed full-time since he was a young man, owned two businesses, was married and raised 4 children to successful adulthood, and became a master-mechanic with small engines.  He repairs and overhauls lawn mowers and other power equipment using only his hands to see what he’s doing – an amazing thing to witness but it’s true!   So right now Dad can’t work on mowers for the added income they need to manage their household bills.  His dominant hand is pretty much useless at this stage, and mowers are heavy, too.  It’s like being a marksman and losing the vision in your sighting-eye.  The rehab and recovery are taking a long time, and it has been a very difficult financial burden on Dad and Doris.   Please consider donating to my Dad’s fund, to help with his medical costs, living expenses, and to give him the opportunity to return to a productive and satisfying life of working, camping, fishing, playing with his grandkids, and just being able to shake someone’s hand. Thank you for your attention. Melissa Atwell