Help Nolan's family on his road to recovery

2020 was a hell of a year and we’re all happy to put it behind us, but for Nolan Helmstetter 2021 began terribly. Nolan would never ask for this help, but we don’t know anyone more deserving and every contribution is appreciated.

In November 2020 Nolan developed flu-like symptoms. Throughout December his symptoms worsened, but every Covid-19 and influenza test came back negative and his blood work left doctors puzzled. Nolan visited a specialist in Coeur D’ Alene, Idaho and was diagnosed with a blood infection and endocarditis (inflammation of the heart lining) and was hospitalized in early January. The infection in his heart destroyed his aortic valve and damaged his mitral valve. Nolan was supposed to have 6 weeks of intravenous antibiotic treatment following his hospitalization. However, doctors moved Nolan’s surgery date after several life-threatening embolisms broke off from the infection in his heart and lodged in his kidney and brain. In early February, Nolan underwent open heart surgery, doctors replaced his aortic valve with a biological one and were able to repair his mitral valve. He will have a long recovery ahead of him into the new year.


Nolan is a dedicated son, husband, father, friend, student, and ecologist. He returned to college as a non-traditional student in his late 20’s and excelled. Nolan studied Ecology and Conservation Biology at the University of Idaho, and graduated, with honors, in December 2017. After graduating he continued to excel, working wildlife technician jobs in the Moscow area, helping his mother with construction and chores on her property, marrying his longtime girlfriend, and welcoming his first son in the spring of 2019. In fall 2019 Nolan was accepted into a graduate program in Dr. Courtney Conway’s research lab and continued to devote time to his academic research goals, ecological conservation, and his family.

Nolan incites laughter in any situation with his witty humor and sarcasm and makes friends wherever he goes. He finds his greatest enjoyment connecting with natural places while afield or on hikes with his family. He is a compassionate father and dotes on his toddler son. Like so many, Covid-19 has negatively affected Nolan’s family’s income. While the life of a graduate student is glamorous and rewarding, it does not come with substantial financial reimbursement. During his recovery, his wife is sole caretaker of their young son. Monies raised during this fundraiser will be used for out-of-pocket medical expenses, food, travel to and from hospital, household bills, etc.

Please consider supporting Nolan and his family in their journey towards recovery and wellness. Any amount helps greatly and is sincerely appreciated. If you are unable to contribute financially please comment below with words of support and encouragement.

Thank you!

Ty, Anne, Courtney, Eamon, Bryan, Neil, Cody and friends