Jeff's Recovery Expenses

On November 1, 2016 Jeff & Kelli Wynsma woke up and began their day like any other.  While Kelli brushed her teeth, Jeff took the dogs out to use the bathroom.  When he came back inside he was dizzy, staggering and had lost control of half of his face.  Jeff decided to try to shake it off by taking a shower, but Kelli knew something was seriously wrong.  They made their way to the med center where they were transferred by ambulance to the hospital.  By the time they had reached St. Mary’s Hospital, hours had elapsed.  A CAT scan revealed to doctors what was suspected from the start.  Jeff had suffered several mini strokes and was unresponsive on the left side of his body.  His mouth sagged; he couldn’t walk; he couldn’t so much as hold his wife’s hand.  He was dizzy, disoriented and his speech was slurred.  Kelli had to make the difficult decision to administer the drug tPA which has been proven to dissolve the blood clots that induce stroke.  This drug is controversial as it must be administered early, and they were unsure when exactly Jeff’s symptoms began.  Many patients hemorrhage if they receive the drug too late.

Gratefully, Kelli made the right decision.  The drug did its job, and Jeff is expected to recover in time.  Over the course of the next few months Jeff will undergo intense therapy, both inpatient and outpatient.  As he is primary breadwinner for his family, the financial hardships they are facing are extreme.  Bills, both medical and household, are looming over the couple, who just celebrated their first wedding anniversary. Jeff is taking unpaid leave from his workplace, and Kelli is burning through her remaining PTO.  Jeff, who is just 32 years old, does not have disability.

That is why I have created this account for them.  Jeff’s recovery could take 3-6 months, and during this time he will be unable to work.  Of course, this all depends on how he responds to therapy.  I’m asking that you please join me in supporting this amazing couple, who has helped so many over the years.  Jeff is a US Army veteran who served two tours in Iraq.  Kelli is a fiercely loyal friend who has spent countless hours and dollars aiding those in her life who have been in need.

Every little bit helps!  And, if you’re unable to donate to this fund, please consider heading over to www.takethemameal.com to sign up to bring the Wynsmas dinner.  (The password is JeffKelli1)  We are hoping to accumulate meals that can be frozen and then popped into the oven or crockpot, as well as gift cards for dining out while the Kelli travels back and forth to the hospital/rehab center.