Thomas & Cory's Journey - Help us help them!

Hi everyone - I'm Catie, a good friend of Cory and Thomas. As some of you know, Thomas was in a tragic motorcycle accident on August 30, 2023, at 8:55 AM, the day that their lives changed dramatically. It's been a long recovery that continues today and for the foreseeable future.

In the bustling city of Los Angeles, at the renowned Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, unfolds a story of remarkable resilience and community spirit. This is the story of Thomas, a man whose life was irrevocably altered by a traumatic accident, yet who continues to fight with the strength of a warrior, buoyed by the love and support of a devoted community.

Thomas's saga began 127 days ago, marked by a dire emergency and the urgent rush to UCLA, where a dedicated team of doctors and nurses sprang into action. His condition was grave: a Frankenstein-like head with a missing bone flap, various splints, a tracheostomy, feeding tubes, and the devastating amputation of his right lower leg were just the start of his battle. Despite the daunting path ahead, Thomas's indomitable spirit shone through each challenging step.

As days turned into weeks, Thomas's resilience became evident. With each incremental improvement, his strength grew. His white blood cells normalized, his vital signs stabilized, and slowly, the numerous medical devices that once surrounded him were no longer needed. The caring hands of his medical team, the affectionate visits from therapy dogs like Georgia the Labrador, and the unwavering support from his partner Cory, all played a pivotal role in his journey.

Throughout this ordeal, the community's role has been immeasurable. Every prayer, thought, and message of encouragement sent Thomas's way has woven a tapestry of hope and strength. The involvement of local heroes like the paramedics from Station 63, who were instrumental in saving Thomas's life, highlights the interconnectedness of this tale.

Now, as Thomas prepares for the next phase of his recovery, a new chapter awaits in Germany. Known for their advanced neuro rehabilitation techniques, the Kliniken Schmeider in Germany offers a true beacon of hope for Thomas to regain what was lost. This journey, however, requires more than just courage and determination; it requires the collective support of a community that has already shown its immense capacity for kindness and generosity. Thomas's recovery here in the States, in acute care, is much less than he needs. Kliniken Schmeider specializes in traumatic brain injury/neuro recovery. They are among the best in the world. Thomas will get world-class care, at a fraction of the cost in the US for sub-optimal care he's currently getting.

This story is not just about the recovery of a man; it's about the power of human connection, the resilience of the human spirit, and the incredible impact of communal support. As Thomas prepares to embark on this next phase of his journey, we invite you, the community, to play a role in this inspiring tale. Your donations can help turn the page to a brighter chapter in Thomas's life, one filled with the promise of recovery and the joy of regaining independence.

Together, we can help Thomas make the journey from acute care here to Germany, transforming this story of struggle into one of triumph. Your support will not only aid in his recovery but also stand as a testament to the incredible things that can be achieved when a community unites for a common cause. Let's rally together for Thomas, a true warrior, and show the world the power of collective compassion and hope.

At the heart of Thomas's arduous journey stands Cory - his unwavering beacon of strength and dedication. Her commitment to Thomas's recovery is nothing short of heroic, yet it bears an overwhelming weight. The path to healing, while filled with hope, is also laden with exhaustion and financial strain. And, the frustration of knowing there are better options for Thomas, but there are barriers and incredible logistical challenges to get there. The journey to Germany, promising as it may be, brings with it a significant financial burden. The costs of travel, treatment, and the continuous back-and-forth for Cory, who remains equally committed to her own patients, add up to a daunting sum. Despite the treatment in Germany being more affordable than in the US, the expenses are still substantial.

As Cory steadfastly supports Thomas, she herself needs our support. She was hesitant to reach out for financial support. But, I convinced her that our rally cry in support can be realized in tangible support, coupled with our unwavering love in support of hope. It's our turn to ease some of her burden, to offer a shoulder for her to lean on in this physical and emotional odyssey. Contributing to this cause is more than just a financial aid; it's a gesture of solidarity, a way to share the load she carries with such admirable fortitude.

So, we come together to lighten Cory's load, to ensure that she can continue to be the pillar of support for Thomas, and help guide him back to better health and a brighter future. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference in their journey, symbolizing our collective support for a love that endures and a spirit that never falters. Let's join hands in supporting Cory and Thomas, in their pursuit of hope, healing, and a new chapter in life.

And, we are supporting Cory through planning so that she can focus on Thomas - acting as an advocate and planner. If anyone would like to join in that as well - please contact me. We welcome support for Cory and Thomas however it comes - financial and otherwise!

We will post updates and progress here and cannot thank you enough for your support!