For Mel Kelder, COVID Assistance

I'm organizing this fundraiser for my uncle, Mel Kelder, of Belton, Texas, and his wonderful family.  At the end of July, my aunt (his wife Susan) took Mel to urgent care because he was short of breath.  He was diagnosed with COVID-19 and put into quarantine and separated from his family.  His condition worsened rather quickly and he was put into an induced coma because his illness was so critical.  During this time, Mel was put on a ventilator and tracheostomy, and there were a number of scares for the family during his 6-week hospitalization.  Weeks went by before he woke from his coma - and we're all so thankful that he did - and then Mel was transferred hours north to a hospital in Dallas, where he has begun physical and occupational therapy.  He is now off of dialysis, but still has a catheter and requires round-the-clock assistance to perform even the smallest tasks.  He is starting to be able to walk again, with help, but it may be many months before Mel is able to get around on his own again.  We are all hopeful. 

The road to recovery has been very rough so far, for Mel and for his family.  Anyone who knows them knows that Mel and Susan have always been pillars of their community and have never said "no" to helping anyone.  They have been active in their kids' schools and their church - Belton Church of Christ - for decades.  On a personal note, Mel and Susan have gone above and beyond many, many times to help my family out when times were tough, even when it wasn't convenient for them, and I have seen them give freely my entire life.  They have always lent a hand to those in need... and now they need a bit of help themselves.  Mel is a fighter and still isn't close to being out of the doghouse, 

Susan has been traveling back and forth from Belton to Dallas to spend time with Mel during visiting hours, and the financial strain of neither being able to work is mounting.  In fact, Susan may have to relocate to the Dallas area for some time while Mel continues to build up strength and regain his mobility in the coming months.  While the majority of the medical expenses so far will be covered by insurance, thankfully, travel and living expenses are putting a lot of undue strain on my aunt when she needs to be spending time caring for her husband. 

I know that she is reluctant to ask for help, especially during these trying times, but I also know that they deserve the help more than anyone I've met so far in life.  They are the most supportive, caring people, and any amount you can give to assist in Mel's road to recovery is very much appreciated. 

Thanks so much in advance, and please share this page with anyone who knows Mel and the rest of the Kelder family who may be willing to help! ❤️