I am Colton, and I am fundraising to help my nephew. Laysen is a thriving and exciting 6 year old boy. He is carefree, loving, and brave. On November 9, 2023 his life was turned upside down when he became non-responsive and suffered from a 10-hour focal seizure that admitted him to the ICU. Diagnosed with Meningitis caused by streptococcus pyogenes (the rare and noncontiguous type) had quickly spread to his brain and spine causing severe symptoms. The first few days were the worst for my nephew, but also for my brother and sister in law, as his condition was so severe that it was unknown as to the outcome. There were six different specialist that would daily de-brief and the odds of Laysen recovering without any long term impairments were not so much in his favor. However, Laysen is a Rhodes, a fighter! After a long stay of 15 days, many MRI's, CT scans, X-RAYS, lab work, IV's, PICC lines, endless antibiotics, and medications, Laysen pushed his way through to a slow recovery. Everyone is so happy to see him today, home where he belongs, healthy and complication free! This has been extremely tough for their entire family, as they have 5 young children (Lane-9 years, Leevi-7 years, Liam-2 years, and Laikley-8 months) whom also struggled through this time without brother and parents at home. I know they both had to take two weeks off of work to care for Laysen and the kids during this time and did so with only a single vehicle. This time off of work, along with the medical bill in which I am allowed to share with you has reached well over 200K, has really placed them in a bind. It is confirmed there is a spiral down where the family only owes a little over $18,000, however, it is still a significant amount and each day they take off of work takes away from their earnings for the month! After much thought and pride put aside, they agreed to let me send this out in hopes to assist them in this time of need! Brenna and my brother Scotty both work as middle school teachers at GMS, Grapevine, Texas. Scotty teaches Texas History along with coaching football, basketball, and track while Brenna is a 6th grade Science Teacher pursuing her second masters to become a principal. They give so much of themselves to their work, to the kids they teach, to the community, along with being engaged, supportive parents! Let's rally behind this family with support and lift them up during this tough time! I hope we can help them and bless them!

Thank you all,

Colton Rhodes