Frank's New Heart

Hi Friends and Family,

My name is Nancy, Frank's sister. It's surreal to find myself in this situation, typing in "GoFundMe" on the browser, but here I am. I am launching a GoFundMe campaign for my brother because he recently underwent open-heart surgery, specifically a quadruple bypass procedure on Thursday January 25, 2024.

On Monday, the 22nd, Frank underwent an EKG test as part of his diagnostic assessments at urgent care. This test played a crucial role in offering valuable insights into the electrical activity of his heart. The information gleaned from this test assisted the medical team in comprehending the intricacies of his cardiac health, ultimately leading to Frank's immediate visit to the ER.

On Tuesday the 23rd, Frank had an angiogram test and blood tests. The cardiologist indicated that the results revealed that Frank's heart condition is primarily attributed to genetic factors. The gradual nature of this development became apparent, showing that it had been unfolding over the course of several years. While this news has left us all shocked and devastated, there is a profound sense of gratitude for catching this condition before it reached a stage we would never want to experience. Recognizing the role of genetics allows for better understanding and proactive management. Despite the challenges, there is a shared sentiment that God's goodness is evident in the timely detection of the issue. Frank will need to be on medications for the rest of his life as well as a complete change of diet and lifestyle.

Many of you either know Frank personally, have had a relationship with him, or continue to do so. We are profoundly grateful for you no matter what. For those unfamiliar with my brother, Frank is an extroverted and hilarious man with a remarkably tender heart. Throughout his life, he has faced the threat of losing it all on three separate occasions, and this recent surgery marks the fourth critical moment. Frank has endured a journey filled with challenges, much like many others, and he now finds himself in need of redemption, grace, and immense mercy. If given the chance for God to rewrite his past, I'm sure he would seize it in a heartbeat at the feet of Jesus. However, today Frank chooses to stand grateful and has arrived at a place of depending wholly on God and God only. Frank is resolute in charting a new course—one that honors his body as a temple and expresses gratitude to God for granting him a fresh start. This renewed lifestyle is not just for his personal well-being but also for the betterment of his own family unit and the friends and family in his life.

But here's the other difficult part of this journey for my brother...as he is finally in the process of recovering at home, he is struggling to come to terms with the initiation of this fundraising effort, grappling with constant worry. The weight he carries is not only physical but also emotional, burdened by a sense of guilt and fear. This heavy emotional load reflects his deep apprehension about the challenges that lie ahead, especially in terms of finances. Frank is navigating a complex landscape, and the support he needs extends beyond physical recovery; it encompasses easing the financial strain to alleviate the burden on his shoulders. And lastly, his greatest fear is burderning his friends and not being able to currently provide for his wife Sami and toddler, Evan.

Reassuring him, I've emphasized that there are genuinely compassionate people out there who will truly understand his situation and offer support. I reminded him that there is always room for grace and mercy in times of need, and that those who give in any way they can is a sign from God that He sees him, He knows him, and He sees Frank through and through. This is community.

In this moment, I see it as an opportunity for Frank to embrace the grace that God is extending to him, and to have a chance to walk into a future imbued with holy love, holy fear, and an overall sense of holiness. This fresh start signifies a turning point. We pray that Frank can navigate this journey with the strength and resilience he has shown throughout his life the best way he could. Frank's commitment to this transformative journey reflects a deep sense of purpose, and with your support, he aims to make positive, lasting changes that resonate beyond his own life.

Your love is deeply appreciated. Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to read and send messages, as well as offer prayers for Frank. The outpouring of support is truly heartwarming, and it means a lot to all of us. Your kindness and positive thoughts contribute significantly to Frank's journey of recovery.

So on behalf of my brother, I am reaching out to ask for assistance. The goal is to help Frank alleviate the financial strain by covering his current medical bills and the upcoming monthly visits to the hospital. Your support, whether through prayers or contributions, will go a long way in providing Frank the stability and peace of mind he needs during this challenging time.

I extend my heartfelt thanks to those who have already started sending messages since day one, offering prayers, meal trains for Sami, and other ways of support for Frank's surgery and recovery. Your kindness and compassion are making a meaningful impact during this challenging period, and we are genuinely grateful for your thoughts and well-wishes. We will never forget each and every one of you.

Thank you once again, from the depths of my heart.

Frank's sister,

Nancy