Gabe's Open Heart Surgery

As close friends of Gabe and Crystal we are asking for support during this very unexpected and stressful time. 

Gabe, a dedicated father of four (soon to be five), started this year off health conscious, happy and eager to expand his family.

December 6, 2016. Gabe went to the Emergency Room confused and unable to focus due to severe pressure in his head and was immediately admitted.

A very long two days of testing followed, including a spinal tap, which revealed a diagnosis of bacterial meningitis and pneumonia. Gabe and Crystal had a gut feeling that something was still not right. Further diagnostic procedures showed some sort of cardiac involvement. After a scope to view his heart they found an infection on his aortic valve. 

On December 16th, Gabe underwent open heart surgery to replace his aortic valve however; an unforeseen complication of his heart condition was micro-aneurysms in the brain that were causing multiple strokes. While he is symptom free as the strokes go at this time the neurologists think there may be further treatments necessary, possibly a brain surgery. 

In light of this massive procedure and the severity of his current health condition, his restrictions require constant care and frequent doctor’s visits for the next 2-3 months. Gabe is the sole provider for his children and expectant fiancé. While his employer will allow him to remain on company insurance (out of pocket) they are not offering any short or long term disability benefits. Gabe and Crystal are currently searching for assistance to these impending financial hardships but it is unclear what support might be available to them or when it might be accessible. 

We all realize that this is a very difficult time of the year for reaching into your pocket to help out Gabe and his family but, if you can even spare $10 it would help them immensely with doctors’ bills and monthly expenses. If you are not able to donate at this time please send positive thoughts and prayers as they go through this healing process as a family. 

Thank you in advance for your kindness and consideration. 

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