Most people who know me know one thing: I work. I show up, I grind, and I take pride in pulling my weight — whether it’s on the job, out in the woods or in the boat. That’s how I was raised, and that’s how our community operates. We help each other, we don’t complain, and we push through whatever’s in front of us. We all have been through a lot in our lifetime. Some more than others but It's the push forward, looking ahead and try not to look back scenario. "Life will get better" is what we always say to ourselves.

What a lot of people don’t know is that I’ve been dealing with this hip for over six years. I actually had my other hip replaced 4 years ago first because that one was giving me even more trouble at the time. I kept putting this one off, kept pushing through it, kept telling myself I could manage it.

But the last two months have been different. I’ve been in nonstop level 7‑9 pain, 24 hours a day. I can’t do my work duties without being in full-on pain, and even the things that normally keep me grounded — hunting, fishing, staying active — have become almost impossible. I’ve been grinding through it miserably because that’s who I am, but I’ve reached the point where I can’t keep pretending this is manageable.

My surgery is scheduled for January 14th. I’m trying to raise $25,000 to cover the medical costs and a little extra for living expenses while I recover and can’t work. Whatever I can raise will be helpful. Asking for help isn’t easy for me, but sometimes even the strongest people need a hand — and I’m trusting the community I’ve always stood with.

If you can donate, share, or just send some support, it means more than I can put into words. Thank you for being part of the community that keeps people going when life hits hard.