Make Murat Walk Again!

To know Murat is to know a 27 year old boy who is filled with love, joy, and compassion.

Hi, my name is Zeynep Fresolone and I am Murat's older sister. Following a horrific diving incident on 9/4, my brother was left completely paralyzed from the chest down, resulting from a broken and dislocated neck. EMT services were called on the spot and Murat was airlifted from an Airbnb in Ocean City Maryland to the shock trauma center at the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Upon arrival at the trauma center, Murat was immediately transported into surgery where he had to undergo two extensive procedures. The first of these procedures was to re-orient the cervical vertebrae back into place from where it had originally shifted. This required two metal rods to be placed at both sides of his neck in order to support his head.

The second surgery was to "decompress" his spine, which had become flattened due to the lack of support that the shifted vertebrae had caused. Much like a domino that sets into motion a spiraling effect, Murat's spinal injury set off a series of events that severely damaged his nervous system.

The happiest moment of my life occurred on 9/6 when my family and I received news that Murat's second surgery confirmed that he would survive.

Although the doctors were adamant that Murat has a long journey ahead of him, he was at the very least alive- which was enough to keep our family going.

Currently, Murat is starting his recovery process in the Neuro ICU where he is re-learning how to breathe on his own and tolerate liquids. At the moment, Murat has some control of his arms, but the fine motor skills necessary to move and grasp with his fingers is lacking.

From his chest downwards, Murat has no feeling.

This news has devastated our family and affected our lives in ways that are still incomprehensible to me as I write this.

Despite these life-altering events, my family and I stand in solidarity as we use our resources to lift Murat's spirits and guide him into healing. Although Murat has a long way to go, we are overwhelmed with happiness when we receive messages of support from Murat's friends, coworkers, and support system.

Murat is an alumni of Bloomsburg University . He loves his job where he works as a senior corporate recruiter for CHUBB. 

Personally, I believe Murat will walk again.

I have faith in god and know we are ALL going to do everything in our power to give Murat the best chance possible.

Any donation you provide will help cover my brother's medical expenses as he eventually transitions from the ICU to rehabilitation. As always, my family and I sincerely appreciate all the well wishes and prayers. We thank you for your support during this challenging journey.