Support Branden's Road to Recovery

I'm setting this up on behalf of my sister, Andrea (Annie), and my nephew, Branden.

On Saturday, November 9, Branden was riding in a car with his best friends. In a total freak accident, the driver lost control of the car and ultimately hit a tree which fell on top of the car, causing it to catch on fire. Thank God Branden's friends were unharmed and successfully pulled him out through a window before the car exploded.

Branden was life-flighted to Holmes Regional with a spinal injury and broken bones in his dominant arm and hand. It wasn't until after he arrived to the trauma unit that our family found out he was still alive - this was by far the most terrifying and agonizing 30ish minute time! Nothing we could ever dream of anticipating just a month and a half before his 18th birthday.

He's currently in the neurosurgical ICU under the care of trauma surgeons, orthopedics, and neurosurgeons. His spinal surgery on Monday was successful, though far more complicated and extensive than anticipated. The morning after surgery, his neurosurgeon said that his spine actually snapped in half and overlapped, and there is no explanation for how he isn't paralyzed from this accident. The doctor explained that the injuries were much more severe than the CT & MRI had left everyone to believe, and "they didn't even do it justice" as during surgery he reported that several muscles were torn entirely in half, and had severed multiple tendons and ligaments that previously stabilized the fractured bones in his spine.

We are beyond grateful to God that Branden will be able to walk again, but will have a long road to recovery. He requires 24/7 care, and it's been so important that my sister is able to stay by his side in the hospital, and will need to continue to do so when he comes home. He currently needs assistance with eating meals and getting to/from the restroom. PT told us that when he does come home, he will need new furniture for his room, including a different mattress because of his spinal injuries, and a chair that will support him but also fit his 6'5" frame.

Thankfully my sister is a nurse and and can perform his dressing changes and maintain his spinal precautions, otherwise, he likely would be transferred to a rehab facility once he is discharged at Holmes.

Annie is a single Mom to Branden and Chanelle, their sole provider and not receiving any support. She started a new job just a few months ago - and will have to continue to work two doubles a week to maintain health insurance coverage - but unfortunately is not FMLA eligible, nor does she have any sick or vacation time until she reaches 12 months of employment.

I'm asking for monetary support that will help with living expenses due to the work my sister has already missed and will miss during this recovery period - this will also go towards their high deductible and other anticipated medical expenses for Branden.

Not just because he's my nephew - but many can attest to the fact that Branden is a gentle giant. He is kind, and compassionate, and takes being the man of his family very seriously. He is a fierce protector of his Mom and sister, and has the biggest heart. Seeing him in so much pain has been so difficult - and he's made such an effort to be as strong and positive through this entire ordeal.

On behalf of my entire family, any donations are greatly appreciated! More than anything - please continue to cover Branden in prayer - and PLEASE share this Gofundme as well!

Love, Aunt Nono