The Matthew Russell Pacemaker Fund

As some of you may know, in 2006, our dear friend Matthew was diagnosed with congestive heart failure and sick sinus syndrome, a condition in which the heart’s natural pacemaker malfunctions. The resolution to this unwelcome diagnosis was implanting Matthew with his first pacemaker.

After 8 years, his 2nd pacemaker was implanted in 2014. At that time, he was diagnosed with additional health concerns, which restricted his lifestyle and added the need for several medical specialists.

During a recent checkup, Matthew was told that the battery on his current pacemaker has very little battery life remaining. This was shocking and unexpected: At his last checkup, he was informed that he had approximately 2 years of battery life remaining on the device.

The manufacturer of his pacemaker had "overestimated the longevity of certain pacemaker models" including the one that Matthew depends on. Therefore, replacement needed to be undertaken as soon as possible.

Matthew was able to work with his doctor and device manufacturer to have his current pacemaker “re-timed” to beat at a slightly slower pace and use slightly less battery. This resulted in an extra month of expected function.

Matthew currently faces tens of thousands of dollars in medical bills and related expenses as he prepares for his 3rd pacemaker implant, scheduled for October 4.

He had not anticipated this expense so soon and is not prepared for this financial obligation. Without a new pacemaker, he won’t live.

Matthew has been a great friend to all of us, and much like a brother to my sister Joyce and me. He helped us through our parents’ last years and their illnesses, without ever burdening us with his own health concerns. He has faced adversity with great courage, humility and a wry sense of humor. We know his spirit and fortitude will guide him through the challenges which lie ahead.

Regrettably, spirit and fortitude will not pay Matthew’s overwhelming anticipated medical bills. While we all need to rally around him spiritually with words of encouragement and love, I’m asking that we also help ease his financial burden.

That’s why I’ve set up this GoFundMe account, as the Matthew Russell Pacemaker Fund.

Each of us has some amount of money that we can contribute to help Matthew. Please acknowledge that every contribution is critical and very much appreciated.

Together, as a group of his friends and supporters, we can ease his spiritual, physical, and financial burden. Matthew’s humility precludes him from making this request, so I’m asking as his good friend.

We kindly ask you to share Matthew’s journey with your friends and family - and encourage them to make an offer of financial assistance, your support will go directly toward Matthew’s medical costs and will ease his worries so he can focus on receiving the new pacemaker and getting back to good health.

We are all blessed to have others in our lives who would make this gesture on our behalf. Thanks in advance for your generosity and support