Zack's Health and Medical
Donation protected
My name is Carrie Hembree, and I would be so appreciative and grateful for you to read the following story about my beloved husband Zack.
At the end of last week, Zack developed flu-like symptoms, which included a high fever for 4 days. He began developing severe chest pain on day 4 that was rapidly escalating in severity. On day 5, we went to the emergency room and they noticed immediately that his EKG was not normal. After extensive work-up, he was diagnosed with Pericarditis.
This is a condition that causes swelling and irritation to the sac around the heart. It was likely triggered by the virus. Fortunately, after a lot of bloodwork, chest x-rays, multiple EKG's, and a heart ultrasound, it was determined that his actual heart is still okay (no heart attack or heart disease). He was admitted for the pericardial problem, and his pain was managed with morphine, etc until the swelling started to decrease.
We are back at home but unfortunately he is still not doing well. His chest pain is still quite severe, he has a constant headache, nausea, weakness, dizziness, etc. The doctors have recommended he continue the prescribed colchicine without adding additional pain medications due to risk with kidney failure by supplementing other medications. And even worse news, the colchicine was $289 so far and is expected to approach $900 with the increased dosage (this is with health insurance!).
Obviously our primary concern is for Zack to feel better and get well as quickly as possible. However, we cannot lose sight of responsibility to our family. Zack is the primary caretaker of our 3 children, who are 3 years old (Alpha), 1 year old (Aleister), and 9 years old (Owen). We are a single income family, and I am a veterinarian. Though it is a noble job, it does not pay the big bucks.
We are now in a situation where not only is Zack our caretaker unable to physically care for the kids, but also I am taking off of work to assume that role, which decreases our income.
I am honored to have been married to such an amazing person for the last four years. As I am sure you all know, he is the most genuine, kindest, loyal, and unique person to grace this world. He has always taken much pride in helping others, and if you have the honor to get to know him, he will take care of you forever.
Though he is too sick and prideful to ask, I know he would graciously appreciate any help that you can offer our family.
At the end of last week, Zack developed flu-like symptoms, which included a high fever for 4 days. He began developing severe chest pain on day 4 that was rapidly escalating in severity. On day 5, we went to the emergency room and they noticed immediately that his EKG was not normal. After extensive work-up, he was diagnosed with Pericarditis.
This is a condition that causes swelling and irritation to the sac around the heart. It was likely triggered by the virus. Fortunately, after a lot of bloodwork, chest x-rays, multiple EKG's, and a heart ultrasound, it was determined that his actual heart is still okay (no heart attack or heart disease). He was admitted for the pericardial problem, and his pain was managed with morphine, etc until the swelling started to decrease.
We are back at home but unfortunately he is still not doing well. His chest pain is still quite severe, he has a constant headache, nausea, weakness, dizziness, etc. The doctors have recommended he continue the prescribed colchicine without adding additional pain medications due to risk with kidney failure by supplementing other medications. And even worse news, the colchicine was $289 so far and is expected to approach $900 with the increased dosage (this is with health insurance!).
Obviously our primary concern is for Zack to feel better and get well as quickly as possible. However, we cannot lose sight of responsibility to our family. Zack is the primary caretaker of our 3 children, who are 3 years old (Alpha), 1 year old (Aleister), and 9 years old (Owen). We are a single income family, and I am a veterinarian. Though it is a noble job, it does not pay the big bucks.
We are now in a situation where not only is Zack our caretaker unable to physically care for the kids, but also I am taking off of work to assume that role, which decreases our income.
I am honored to have been married to such an amazing person for the last four years. As I am sure you all know, he is the most genuine, kindest, loyal, and unique person to grace this world. He has always taken much pride in helping others, and if you have the honor to get to know him, he will take care of you forever.
Though he is too sick and prideful to ask, I know he would graciously appreciate any help that you can offer our family.
Organizer
Zackery Hembree
Organizer
Flowery Branch, GA
