Walking home in their neighborhood last August, Iam and a friend were violently attacked by a large group of assailants in masks. The assault left both badly beaten. Dozens of blows to the head caused severe concussion, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and an ongoing brain bleed as shown by monthly CTs. His left eye suffered severe trauma causing vision impairment. Consistent debilitating headaches, ongoing physical challenges, and significant cognitive impairment continue. While the physical scars have largely healed, CTs showed an increased bleed over 6 months later necessitating brain surgery. Sadly, a second hemorrhage found is integral to providing blood flow to his right eye, ruling surgery out or risking blindness, causing real concern for the health of both eyes. More specialists; ophthalmology, neurology, trauma, orthopedics, rehabilitation over the next few months leave much uncertainty. Recovery is an ongoing uphill challenge. The physical and cognitive deficits he has endured could prove to be permanent, but he is striving to maintain positivity under the conditions. Over 8 months of unemployment and being medically uncleared to work, financial sustainability has become a dire and immediate concern. Medical bills build, with no end in sight – and the basis costs of living (rent, phone, insurance, utilities, food, etc.) cannot currently be met. Personal loans are now months past due; favors of all kinds have been extended to exhaustion. It’s very uncomfortable asking for help in this way, but little recourse remains; when we’ve exhausted all options and still need help, we must call on anyone and everyone we love, care about, rely upon, and trust, as well as the kindness of strangers. The road back has proven to be considerably longer and more complicated than anticipated, while trudging through bureaucracies and endless forms. Mental health is a very real concern and physical atrophy becomes more and more difficult to combat under the circumstances.
Accessing financial assistance becomes increasingly difficult to obtain. Please help support a victim of criminal violence through a period of hardship and readjustment. We are beyond grateful to everyone who has helped and to anyone who can provide a contribution for support. Funds will be applied toward medical bills, rent, utilities, both human and pet food, insurance premiums, as well as debts accrued.
Despite being assaulted blocks from his home, Iam cares deeply for the neighborhood he has called home for over 20 years. Thank you for caring for each other, and for everything you’ve already done. The kindness and generosity has been integral. We all hope to see him back in action soon!
Organizer