Joe Vara's Medical Fund

Hi All,


I am writing asking for support for my dear brother Joe.  Joe is a kind, hard working man, father and overall good guy who recently had his life dramatically changed overnight.  On a Thursday he was weak and fainted, and by the next morning he could not stand.  Since then, within two weeks, he no longer can breathe on his own, and barely can move any part of his body.  He contracted the West Nile Virus.  This terrible incurable virus has turned Joe's life upside down, and he needs help on his road to recovery.  


As he journeys to recover he needs much medical support and that medical support comes with a giant price tag​, o​ne he can not afford on his own.  So on his behalf I am asking that you consider making a financial donation to help Joe cover his medical costs, which are in the thousands and we do not know what the end bill will be at this point.  He has been in the hospital for almost three weeks, and although he has insurance, his portion is still in the thousands.  In addition, we do not see a short term end to the medical help he will need. 


He will soon be moved from the hospital into a rehab facility with a ventilator/tracheostomy support, along with occupational and physical therapy to hopefully help him breathe independently, walk again and regain his arm mobility and strength.   However, we are told that these facilities run about $12,000.00 a month.  Joe does have insurance for now which covers a portion of this amount, and we are applying for government assistance as well,  however Joe will have to pay a portion of the bill which will be in the thousands.  


So, please join us as we walk with Joe on his journey to recovery.   Joe is missed volunteering with the Coast Guard, fishing and kayaking with friends or just enjoying a leisurely walk​.​ He misses and desires to breath on his own, talk on his own, walk, write and even work again.  Your prayers, and financial support in any amount are needed and appreciated.  


Sincerely,
Lisa Berry




Here are a couple of sweet stories of why I appreciate my brother:


Story 1:

A few weeks ago I was having a hard time, so I went to my mom's house.  She was asleep, but Joe greeted me at the door with a smile and a warm hug and I cried in his embrace.  He welcomed me in at a late hour and just sat with me.  I did not want to talk about my problem, but he was kind to just sit with me and talk about our mutual interest in tea.  It was a nice late night talk, full of love and compassion.


Story 2:


As a teen I played in the high school band, and sometimes when we returned from competitions it was past midnight, and my parents were not always up and ready to get me, which is ok.  However, Joe, my big brother made it clear to me that if I did not have a ride home, to call him and he would come get me.  It really was a comfort to me as a teen.