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Dear friend:
As parents there are phone calls we hope to never receive. Dreadfully for Betty and I we received one of them ….we were informed our 18 year old son Marcus had been involved in a serious auto accident and airlifted to UCLA Hospital’s trauma center.
Marcus had been a passenger and along with friends were traveling on a rural road when the driver lost control of the vehicle around a corner, missed the entrance to a bridge and due to the lack of a guard rail tumbled down to the creek’s bedrock. While his friends were able to climb out of the car unharmed, Marcus unfortunately was pinned inside until rescue arrived. Overall it was a divine act that none of them perished and this is something for which everyday we thank Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior.
After arriving at UCLA we learned Marcus had suffered a severe fracture to his upper neck, his breathing was partially paralyzed, he had lost feeling in the rest of his body and that an emergency neurosurgery procedure would be underway. It could not be confirmed if Marcus would live. Our initial reactions were of deep desperation, helplessness and prayers.
Our son underwent a ten hour surgery which required the opening of his neck in the front and back to essentially reconstruct the neck using artificial implants. Afterwards Marcus remained permanently sedated for several days and had no less than 10 machines attached but he had survived.
After days of sedation he was awaken but due to his inability to breathe normally he was intubated and now required the use of a 24-hour oxygen machine … simple tasks like talking or eating were not possible. A new major obstacle then arised in that it could not be determined if Marcus would breathe on his own.
To complicate matters, while recovering from surgery at UCLA he contracted Pneumonia and throat complications from intubation which extended his stay in intensive care to 8 weeks. Lastly and in yet another sign of hope, his breathing improved, the oxygen machine was removed and the tube was replaced by a trachea implant in his lower throat … but now he could speak, eat and even laugh a bit.
Since leaving UCLA and during the next four months he was transferred and remained at two other hospitals for breathing and physical rehabilitation. We would wholeheartedly like to thank and express an immeasurable amount of gratitude to the numerous doctors, nurses and staff members that saved, cared and demonstrated such love for Marcus.
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The first time we saw our son in a wheelchair and realized he was paralyzed is without a doubt something parents pray not ever to see. And yet, at that same moment one must overcome that immediate emotion of sadness for one’s child to show support and strength.
However and as one more Blessing, Marcus’ injuries may not be permanent … he has regained normal breathing and some movement in his upper and lower body. Major advances in rehabilitation therapies, spine and stem cell research should help him achieve his goal of independence. However, Marcus needs financial assistance … we are kindly asking for your contribution to raise $105,000.00 to help cover his urgent transportation needs and rehabilitation expenses. All donations are 100% tax deductible and you can use a debit or credit card through this website. You can also mail a check attn: Marcus Matamoros #15682.
Marcus is now at home surrounded by an abundance of love and support from friends and family. Through positivity, love and grit Marcus will continue fighting and hopes to make significant progress to soon return to college and finish his degree in computer science.
Thank you for your kind understanding and please feel free to contact Marty Matamoros with any questions at (818) 692-3316.
….. and the people of God said Amen.
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You got this Marcus! You're amazing, sending you peace, love, health, & happiness!
Best wishes from the Zeltzers
Anonymous
I pray for God's healing and strengthening hands to be upon Marcus. Help him endure in his physical therapy and give him strength and peace of mind. In Christ's name we pray. Amen.
Robert Thomson
Dear Ywe,
My heart goes to Marcus and your family. Wishing him a Godspeed recovery!
God Bless,
Angelica
Angelica Kanter
We hope from the bottom of our hearts that Marcus gets well.
Ale & Paco
Francisco Molina
Here to support you and your family in your journey. - Jaime and Steve
Steve Arnold
Hey Marcus!
I remember seeing this on twitter and I kept it in my files. I hope this is able to help a little. We said we were all gonna hang out but we never did! That’s how life gets sometimes, I also don’t think I have your number. Hopefully we can all see each other soon. Have a good one!
Diamond Longs
Please donate to help this wonderful young man and his beautiful family.
Kenneth Settle
Wishing you the very best Marcus.
Donna Bonelli
May God continue to bless you through this journey with strength, guidance, patience and healing. You’re an amazing young man Marcus . Work hard you will walk again. Love auntie Val
Valerie Howard
Wishing and praying for the very best for you Marcus!!
Scott and Donna Bonelli
Sending positive thoughts your way Marcus!
Caitlin Miller
Keep smiling big dawg! You’re life is only beginning! Love ya G! Got that monthly dono on! You got my support G!
Carlisle Aikens
Wish you the best man, keep on fighting. I know you’ll make it on top
Jimmy Roberson
Marcus,
My family and I are constantly praying for you. It brings so much joy to my heart to see you smile. Keep your faith and God will continue to bless you. ❤️
Kendra Settle
Super proud of you Marcus! You got this. You’ve got my prayers and support.
Monique Watson, RT
Aye you got this!! I believe in you
Clari Swaggard
This is for Marcus Matamoros.
Kimberley Davison
Hello Marcus, my name is Janice Settle-KENDRA Settle mom. I have kept you in my prayers & very proud of your determination, strength & beautiful smile. I never met you personally, but I have big love for your family. The support you have surrounding you is a true blessing.
Janice Settle
happy that you were able to over come this and heal healthy . You are very strong
joshua b
I\'m so proud of you Marcus and I\'m glad to see you smile!
Love, Les
Les
Marcus your story brought tears to my eyes but your smile and positive attitude wipe them away keep moving forward .you have a testimony for the people to hear . God has a purpose for your life. You have a village behind you stay strong .
Linda Fisher Perry
Hey Marcus It’s Nico. I don’t know if you remember me but we hung out a couple of times . Your story broke my heart but your positivity and smiles inspire me . Thank you for teaching us all what really matters. Ima keep donating don’t trip! Keep going you got this I believe in you.
Nico Cespedes
I hope you are staying strong and stayin up! Hope you feel as better as ever :))
Maddie Lyons
I’m praying for complete healing for you. May you continue to go on your journey with strength. You are a inspiration. God Bless you Marcus and much love to you.
Vivian Davis
Stay strong Marcus. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Love,
The Rizo’s
Marina Rizo
Read
Joshua Pikes
Make checks payable to:
Help Hope Live
Note in memo:
In honor of Marcus Matamoros
Mail to:
Help Hope Live
2 Radnor Corporate Center
Suite 100
100 Matsonford Road
Radnor, PA 19087
Donor preference is important to us. Please specify in writing if you wish for your name or donation amount to be kept private.
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