Support Nick Prehm and His Family in Their Time of Need

Nick and Andrea, and their two very young daughters are experiencing a moment in their lives that none of us ever expect to find ourselves in.

Andrea is a nurse at The Ohio State University and is doing everything in her medical knowledge and power to pull their lives together during this medical crisis, but help is desperately needed.

Nick, a hard-working, healthy, dedicated husband and father, woke up one morning in late January with concerning symptoms- numbness, facial paralysis, weakness. A trip to the Emergency Department turned into an extended stay at The Ohio State University, including several days in Step-Down ICU. After extensive testing, Nick was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS). In short, GBS is an immune system dysfunction that ravages nerves and the spinal cord. It was a rapid onset, and rehabilitation is going to be a long road.

He received the recommended treatment, but the nature of this autoimmune condition is debilitating weakness and loss of function, and without proper management, could lead to progression of the condition and possibly the need for life-saving measures. Nick is being monitored closely for any progression, and evaluated for further treatment. Nick is now at home, and is leaning heavily on his beloved family for support.

The nature of Nick's work has allowed him to be a primary caregiver for their two small daughters Faye (age 3), and Lucy (age 1), alleviating the need for paid childcare- a great expense for any family. In the wake of this acute illness, Nick is now himself requiring around the clock care, and Lucy and Faye are needing more support than he can provide. Andrea is coordinating with family and loved ones, trying to make sure everyone's needs are met, but as the primary source of income, she is also trying to maintain her work schedule to keep the ship afloat.

With each challenge comes a new question or problem to solve. The concern of this crisis is wearing on each of them in its own way.

These funds will be used for medical bills and expenses, which are still piling on. Nick will need extensive and intense therapy to regain the strength and coordination he once had. Transportation, supplies, safety updates to the home, and medical equipment are among examples of costs past the hospital bills. With Nick unable to work, these funds will help alleviate the burden of day-to-day expenses. Child care and respite care for Andrea and the dedicated family members who are supporting Nick are also needs of the family.

This dear family needs our love and generosity. May these moments of fear and uncertainty be eased by the kindness of others, and the challenges they face be quickly in their rear-view mirror. Please consider donating to Nick Prehm.