Life-altering emergency surgery for Kris Sarpy

My name is Heidi, I'm an only child and I only have 1 cousin on my dad's side - Kristopher.

Since we both grew up as military brats, we didn't get to see each other very often...but my little cousin was there for most of my happiest childhood memories. From our unforgettable family get together on Lake Winnipesaukee, NH to playing dress up at our grandmother's house in South Florida, he's the closest thing I've had to a little brother.

On December 12, 2023, my cousin went in for a routine ACLR surgery on his left knee. At Walter Reed Emergency Room on December 18th, they discovered he had contracted a rare flesh-eating bacteria, necrotizing fasciitis, in his left leg and they had to immediately remove all of the skin and muscle from 6" above his left knee to his ankle in order to save not only his leg but his LIFE because the infection was spreading so rapidly.

After the emergency surgery at Walter Reed ER to save his leg, he was transferred to the University of MD (UMMC shock trauma) where he currently awaits surgery #5 on January 2nd for additional skin grafts.

The plan, so far, is that he will remain at UMMC's shock trauma center until at least mid-January and will then transfer to in-patient orthopedic rehabilitation for long-term care at UMORI. His mom/my aunt, Marcia, has been designated as his advocate with Power of Attorney and is overseeing all of his care through this entire process.

These funds will be used to offset living expenses, long term care, and any unforeseen circumstances as a divorced parent with two small children while Kris recovers from this life-altering event.

Since we haven't had the luxury of being close in proximity to each other our whole lives, I've never really had the opportunity to "be there" for my cousin through any of his life-changing events...until now.

The older we get, life continues to have a funny way of showing us what "family" really means - and it's not always because of a blood relation - but when someone you consider family has a need and you can do something to help, you do it. When my aunt said she wanted to start a crowdfunding campaign for my cousin but had no idea where to start, I knew it was my turn to help.

Please give whatever you can - any amount donated will be graciously accepted and used to help Kris "get back on his feet" if you will.