Corey Smith, Teacher - Medical Emergency

Corey has had a massive heart attack. He's undergone a double bypass open heart surgery and will remain in the hospital for 7-10 days. He's lucky to be alive, and his family is grateful. However, they have a long road ahead. Recovery from this type of surgery is measured in months, not days or weeks.

Corey has celiac disease, a serious auto-immune condition in which the body attacks the small intestine after exposure to gluten. Celiac disease increases the risk of heart disease. It is hereditary and the children have it as well, in addition to several other severe food allergies. For this reason, we ask that you consider contributing to this fundraiser in lieu of providing the family a meal.

A bit about Corey and his family:

Corey is an Intervention Specialist teacher at Lakeland Preparatory High School in Tennessee. He has coached sports teams for the last 18 years, and currently helps coach the Lakeland Middle Preparatory basketball and football teams. Corey is dedicated to bettering himself and his students, and had planned to complete his Masters in Education this summer. He brings joy to others' celebrations thru PURE Laser Tag.

They are a homeschool family with four young children: Eli (10), Cora (8), Madelyn (3), and Mikey (1). Eli plays basketball for MHEA and the older children are a part of the Classical Conversations Community.

Corey supplements his teaching salary by running a small, family-owned business called PURE Laser Tag. In the summer months, they run camps and programs for local children. They've already had to cancel several weeks of camp. The family relies on this income, and it's a harsh reality to realize they will not have it this summer. It's going to be a long haul for Corey as he regains his strength and health.

All monies raised through this GoFundMe will go directly to Corey and Nicole Smith. First on the agenda is getting Corey a supportive recliner for his big and tall frame. With a broken sternum it's recommended to sleep upright the first few weeks. It will also be a place he can collect the babies and read to them.

The rest of the funds will used for their day-to-day living expenses, such as buying groceries and paying the mortgage and utilities, and for Corey's medical fees.

Thank you for reading and to all those who have reached out with offers to help. Corey and Nicole are grateful for your support.