On a regular Tuesday, James went to work like any other day but by the afternoon, everything changed.
He came home early, and not long after, was found collapsed on the sidewalk, unable to walk. Passing cars had begun honking, drawing attention to his distress. We rushed to the ER and were told it was likely a bulging disc. But something didn’t sit right. He couldn’t even walk out of the ER on his own.
The next day, while trying to get up for a follow-up appointment, James lost the ability to move his arms as well. An ambulance was called. He was finally admitted to the hospital and, within 24 hours, transferred to Columbia Presbyterian in NYC, where he was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) a rare and terrifying autoimmune condition that attacks the nervous system and caused him sudden paralysis.
James spent 12 days in intensive treatment, undergoing five plasma transfusions to try and stop the progression. He is now at Burke Rehabilitation Center, beginning the long road to recovery: relearning how to walk, regaining strength, and rebuilding his independence. We’ve been told it will take weeks to months of continued therapy, with James expected to be out of work for at least 3 to 6 months, possibly longer due to the physical nature of his job.
I’ve always done my best to handle things on my own, so asking for help like this isn’t easy. Things were already a bit tight, and with everything going on driving back and forth to the hospital every day, paying for parking and fuel, working full time, and managing the kids it’s been a lot. Between added transportation costs, lining up childcare, enrolling the kids in extra summer camps so I can focus on James’ transition when he’s ready to come home, and the unexpected medical bills and deductibles, the expenses have added up quickly.
To those who have already reached out, sent meals, gift cards, helped with the kids, or simply checked in THANK YOU! from the bottom of our hearts. Your kindness has carried us through some of the hardest moments these past few weeks.
If you’re able to help whether through a donation, sharing this with others, or continuing to keep James in your thoughts we’re so incredibly grateful.
With love and appreciation,
Bryonna & Family
