Stronger Together

Stronger Together

Our brother, Steve Zacek, is known for MANY things: his wicked sense of humor, boundless energy, and unwavering love and support of his family and friends.  If you have been fortunate to have Steve in your life you know what we mean.  Last November Steve married his best friend, Neena and happily stepped into his role as Stepdad to her son D.J.  Unfortunately, a grave illness has overshadowed what should be a beautiful time of new beginnings.

Steve suffers from a Connective Tissue Disorder that has caused aneurysms throughout his body, as well as an instability of his Aorta.  The debilitating symptoms and side-effects are too numerous to detail.  He has undergone a myriad of surgical procedures in the last three years with no true relief found.  Doctors were perplexed and Steve’s health has continued to decline dramatically in the past six months. 

Most recently, though, Steve’s case was referred to the brilliant team of doctors and surgeons at Mayo Clinic in Minnesota.  Steve and Neena have commuted from Chicago to Rochester, MN and back over 12 times for tests, consults and procedures.  They will make another trip very shortly for a life-saving surgery to repair Steve’s aorta.  Once successful, Steve will wait about three months and then travel back to undergo a second, equally serious surgery.  He has months of pain and recovery ahead of him. 

With his limited ability to work his medical and travel expenses continue to mount.  Steve has always opened his heart, mind and hands to anyone who needed him, without fanfare.  That is why we are reaching out to family and friends.  If you would like to help Steve and Neena Zacek, this is a simple but very meaningful way to support them in this difficult time!  

Steve and Neena’s family would like to thank you for your love and support.