In September 2007, Gabe Chesman, a resident of Springfield, NJ was living in Philadelphia where he was enrolled at Drexel University. Having just celebrated his 21st birthday in August, he was looking forward to a new semester: starting classes, hanging out with friends, playing his guitar. But on September 17th, Gabe’s world turned upside down.
After spending the weekend playing soccer with friends (a passion since high school), and getting ready for classes, Gabe began to experience lower back pains and tingling sensations in his extremities. A friend rushed him to the hospital where Gabe rapidly started losing sensation in his limbs. Within the hour, he became completely paralyzed and unable to breathe on his own. The ER medical team diagnosed Gabe with Transverse Myelitus.
Gabe spent the next seven weeks in the ICU, battling a series of infections, before being transferred to the Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation in West Orange, NJ.
After months of grueling therapy, surgery and health complications, Gabe finally regained some use of his left arm and the ability to breathe on his own, but he remains confined to a wheelchair, unable to walk or take on the simple tasks others take for granted. He eventually was able to return home with his single mom Jamie, thanks to the efforts of caring community members who undertook the ongoing task of transforming the family house to fit his special needs.
Gabe has made tremendous progress over the last six years but he continues to face the overwhelming daily cost of health care and 24 hour/day personal home care which unfortunately remains largely uncovered by medical insurance or government assistance. As he continues to rebuild his life, he reluctantly comes to you to ask for your help to meet these expenses.
Finding normalcy in a world built for the independently mobile isn’t always easy, but with everyone’s support, Gabe is forging ahead. He is currently working for two Public Relations firms that specialize in Corporate Social Responsibility, providing Social Media strategy and implementation.
The high cost of Gabe’s ongoing health and personal care is well beyond the ordinary and would tax anyone’s resolve if it weren’t for the generosity of donors like you. Gabe has chosen to fundraise through HelpHOPELive to provide both tax-deductibility and fiscal accountability to contributors. You can be sure your donation will be used to pay or reimburse expenses related to his medical condition.
To share Gabe’s story with others in your community who might wish to learn about his campaign, see the sharing options at the top of this page.
Since that September day, Gabe’s resolve and generous character have inspired everyone who has gotten to know him. Join our Facebook page to stay updated on Gabe’s progress.
Thanks for your support!
