Matthew Rokenbrod

On August 7, 2024, my life—and my family’s—changed in an instant.

At 50 years old, I suffered a rare spinal cord stroke. Just days before, I was mowing the lawn and playing golf. In a single moment, everything I understood about my body, my independence, and my future was rewritten.

I am grateful to be cognitively strong and to have full use of my arms and hands. That gives me some independence. But being paralyzed from the chest down has changed daily life in ways I never imagined.

What I miss most are the simplest things—the ability to care for myself and to fully show up for my family, especially my wife, Lauren, and my son, Ryan.

Our Goal

$61,000 per year for the next 3 years

This goal supports the ongoing care, rehabilitation, and resources needed to help me regain as much independence as possible.

What Life Looks Like Now

The past year has been filled with uncertainty—but also progress.

I spent nearly 100 days in hospitals and rehabilitation facilities, relearning basic skills most people never have to think about. That work continues today.

My spinal cord injury is classified as “incomplete,” which means recovery is possible. I have already regained some sensation in my legs and feet. Continued progress depends on consistent therapy, training, and support.

Daily life now includes challenges most people never have to consider—safe transfers, mobility, and adapting to a new way of living.

How Your Support Helps

Your generosity directly supports:

Physical Therapy Insurance covers only 30 sessions per year, but meaningful progress requires more

Caregiving Support Approximately $2,500 per month (not covered by insurance)

Home Modifications Creating an accessible bathroom with a roll-in shower

Transportation & Mobility Driver training and, ultimately, a wheelchair-accessible vehicle

Progress Made Possible So Far

Because of early support, real progress is already happening:

Bathroom renovation is underway to build a roll-in shower

A new shower chair has been ordered

Physical therapy has resumed

These are meaningful steps toward greater independence—and they would not be possible without your support.

Ongoing Challenges

Transportation remains one of the biggest barriers. I currently rely on a limited county service to attend medical appointments and therapy, which can be unreliable and restrictive.

An accessible vehicle would allow me to attend therapy consistently, regain flexibility in daily life, and restore a sense of freedom and dignity.

Caregiving and rehabilitation are also ongoing needs. These are not one-time expenses—they are part of a long-term reality.

Why This Matters

Despite everything, I am deeply grateful to be alive. I spent weeks in the ICU requiring intensive, lifesaving care.

This experience has changed my perspective and strengthened my commitment to rebuilding my life—step by step—toward greater independence.

How You Can Help

Funds are being raised through the nonprofit Help Hope Live to support critical, uninsured recovery expenses.

If you’re able to give, every contribution—no matter the size—makes a meaningful difference.

If you’re not able to donate, sharing this page is another powerful way to help.

With Gratitude

Thank you to everyone who has supported my family and me, prayed for my recovery, and stood by us since August 7, 2024.

Your generosity, encouragement, and support mean more than words can express.