Valerie Chambers

Hi everyone, This is not something we ever imagined having to write, but life has taken an unexpected and overwhelming turn, and we could really use some support. Andrew is a devoted husband and father who has always put his family first. He is kind, hardworking, and the kind of person who keeps going no matter what life throws at him. Anyone who knows him knows how deeply he cares and how much heart he brings to everything he does. Many of you know that Andrew lives with a connective tissue condition called Loeys-Dietz Syndrome. Over the years, this has led to multiple health challenges, including six hernia surgeries and three open-heart surgeries. Recently, while recovering from another hernia surgery, Andrew suffered serious internal bleeding. His hemoglobin dropped to dangerous levels, requiring blood transfusions and a prolonged hospital stay. Just as we thought he was beginning to recover, things took another terrifying turn. Shortly after coming home, Andrew went into severe anaphylactic shock. His condition deteriorated rapidly, and he was rushed back to the hospital, where he spent 5 days in the ICU. During this time, doctors discovered something even more serious. A CT scan revealed a new and rapidly growing aneurysm in his subclavian artery. Due to its location and the speed at which it is progressing, it will require another open-heart surgery as soon as possible. Because of Andrew’s condition, this surgery is complex and will require his chest to be opened again. At the same time, his body is still recovering from everything it has just been through, and his blood levels are not yet where they need to be for optimal surgical outcomes. There is also a second less urgent aneurysm that will need to be repaired in the future, making this an ongoing journey. Despite everything, Andrew continues to face each day with strength, resilience, and determination. He has already made major life changes, including stepping away from a high-stress corporate career, to protect his health and be present for our family. However, this time, the road ahead is bigger than anything we could have prepared for. Andrew works in commission-based sales, which means that time away from work is time without income. With an expected recovery period of 4 to 6 months and limited support through EI, the financial strain on our family is significant. We have already been deeply touched by the kindness of close friends and our work families who have reached out to help in small but meaningful ways. That support gave us the courage to share our story more openly. If you are in a position to help, any contribution will go toward basic living expenses while Andrew focuses on healing and recovery. If you’re not able to donate, we completely understand. Sharing this page would mean just as much to us. This journey is frightening and uncertain, but we are holding onto hope. We believe in Andrew’s strength, and we believe in the power of community to help carry us through. Thank you for taking the time to read our story, and for your kindness, support, and care. With heartfelt gratitude, Andrew, Valerie, and Kids