Help Paul Stokes Beat the Odds Again

1/8/2022 Update:

Currently Paul’s brain stem is measuring at 14 mm because of the swelling; usually death occurs when the brain stem passes 5 mm. Dr. Brock said in her decade of neurosurgery she has never seen a patient survive past 5 mm. Paul is truly a medical miracle. This gofundme theme of beating the odds continues to hold true; especially considering the odds are essentially now zero. Paul has been able to eat yogurt and his speech is getting clearer and making sense in the right context. This morning he said clearly, “give me a kiss” to his sweetheart, Rachelle. He delights the medical staff with his positive attitude, gratitude for their help, and contagious smile. We continue to hold onto hope; we also understand each additional minute we have with Paul is a gift not taken for granted.

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Original Gofundme Story:

Paul Stokes is a 51-year-old devoted father of five and spouse who loves to cheer for the underdogs. This week, Paul’s years of supporting the little guy paid off when he beat the odds of a 26% chance of survival. Amazingly, Paul’s big heart is still with us today!

 

On December 23rd, Paul was life-flighted to Utah Valley Hospital for a devastating and debilitating brain bleed medically known as a temporal parietal hemorrhagic stroke. Now Paul is on to the next big challenge as his comprehension and speech were greatly affected by the stroke. Currently Paul is working on the very basics like dressing, reciting the ABCs, and counting. Paul's vision was also affected but his speech impairment makes it difficult to communicate what he is visually experiencing. Gratefully, Paul can walk with support but he is physically weaker on the right side. Paul will need months of rehabilitation, starting in a facility. This will be a long road to recovery; however, Paul's family carries his positive spirit and are hopeful he can beat the odds again. 

As the sole provider of his family working two jobs, Paul will go several months without pay until long-term disability insurance begins. After that, he will only receive a fraction of his income. As many who know the Stokes family, Paul's loving wife (Rachelle) is unable to work due to her own disabilities caused by multiple sclerosis.