Kenneth Walker

Family and Friends of Kenneth Walker are raising funds through the nonprofit Help Hope Live to help cover uninsured medical expenses related to a catastrophic spinal injury. PLEASE SELECT “SEE ALL” TO READ KEN’S STORY.

In March of this year, Ken underwent back surgery for what was expected to be a routine sciatica procedure. However, following the procedure, he had to be readmitted when serious complications developed. Unfortunately, those complications proved to be severe, as Ken endured multiple bouts of sepsis and painful infections attacking different areas of his spine. These complications required three additional spinal surgeries within a matter of weeks that tragically left him paralyzed from his waist down. Since being readmitted in April, Ken has remained in the hospital or in rehabilitation, tirelessly working with faith, courage, and determination to regain his mobility.

From day one – and the 28 years that have followed – Ken has been a loving and devoted husband. He is a proud father of two adult sons and a beloved middle school math teacher (honored as Teacher of the Year). His optimism and resilience in the face of pain reflects the same unwavering dedication he has always shown to his family, students, and community.

While doctors are cautiously optimistic about his recovery, they anticipate at least two years of intensive rehabilitation. In physical therapy, Ken is giving his all in every session. He has already gained enough upper-body strength to sit-up independently and participate in transfers from the bed to his wheelchair.  Although still extremely painful, he is now able – with assistance – to bear weight on his legs while using his arms to support himself on the parallel bars. You can view this incredible blessing by accessing the link at the end of this page. His loved ones remain steadfast in supporting Ken and consistent in prayer, believing for full restoration.

Insurance has fallen short of Ken’s needs for current and future medical care, leaving a balance of $7000 for every week he is receiving acute inpatient rehab. services. While insurance covered the cost of his motorized wheelchair, it will not cover any of the costs for essential home equipment, supplies or personal transportation (e.g., hospital bed, Hoyer lift, wheelchair ramps, adaptable shower chair, accessibility modifications, personal care supplies, a used wheelchair-accessible van, etc.).

To navigate this life-changing journey, Ken and Shellie (Carla) have partnered with Help Hope Live, a trusted nonprofit that ensures all donations are tax-deductible, funds are transparently distributed, and applied only to medical expenses not covered by insurance.

Many employers also offer matching gift programs that can double – or even triple – the impact of each donation. Some extend these benefits to spouses and retired employees. We encourage donors to explore whether their employer participates in such a program, as it can greatly expand the resources available to support Ken’s ongoing care.

👉 Check if your employer offers matching donations:

https://helphopelive.org/donate/#other-ways-to-give

Ken has struggled mightily through life-threatening challenges and still faces a long road to recovery. It is difficult to ask for financial support, but we do so humbly and out of necessity. The organization sets the minimum donation amount at $10.00. Personally, each and every donation of any amount is sincerely and deeply appreciated. If you prefer, your gift can be made anonymously. All donors will receive an automatic receipt from this site for tax purposes.

The school at which Ken taught would like to hold a fundraiser. If you would also be interested in doing so, please contact Shellie at [email protected]. The organization provides fundraising flyers and other fundraising materials at no cost, which Shellie can make available to you.

Your prayers, generosity, and encouragement mean more to Ken and his family than words can express. Thank you for standing beside him on this journey of healing and hope. It is our prayer that, in God’s perfect timing, Ken will once again regain his ability to stand – strong and fully restored.

Please click on the link below to see how hard Ken is working!

https://vimeo.com/1125001008?share=copy