For the past three years, I have been battling avascular necrosis in both hips, a disease that slowly destroyed my bones and left me unable to walk. During this time, the company I worked for closed, and my family and I lost our health insurance. This made it nearly impossible to get the medical care I needed, and it wasn’t until my femur broke that I was finally treated as an emergency. As of January 2025, both of my hips have been replaced, but the journey has left us with significant medical bills and ongoing recovery needs.
Despite these challenges, I am determined to move forward. I am currently enrolled at Arizona State University in Tempe, working toward a bachelor’s degree in urban planning with a minor in architecture. After a decade in construction and five years in management, I want to help build sustainable urban spaces that support both people and the environment. My hope is that this degree will help me recover financially and provide for my six children, who have shown incredible resilience through these tough years. My wife, Jenni, has been my rock—caring for me, managing our home, and supporting our kids when I couldn’t. Our children have sacrificed their activities and special occasions, but they have remained understanding and strong.
We have always prioritized keeping food on the table and clothes on our children, even when it was difficult. Now, I am asking for help to cover medical expenses and continue my education so I can rebuild for my family and give back to the community that has supported us. Any support will help us move forward and create a better future for our family and others.