It’s challenging to find a more loving and devoted husband and father than Dustin Meade. Dustin and Darcy (née Bonifay) got married on June 9, 2006. They have three dynamic and extraordinary children: Ruby (12), Mickey (3), and Emmeline (1). Dustin has always taken his role seriously as the provider, protector, and spiritual leader of his beautiful family.
Dustin began working in heavy equipment in 2006, and it would be an understatement to say he’s passionate about the work he does. He has always had a love for “big trucks” and is a gearhead through and through. But his dedication isn’t the only thing he has going for him—Dustin is exceptionally good at what he does. He’s also known by all (supervisors, co-workers, friends, and family) as a stickler for safety.
On June 29, 2021, Dustin Meade was was injured at work. The details of the accident itself are not yet clear, but he suffered a head injury, a broken arm and pelvis, and several skull and facial fractures. He was med-flighted to a trauma center near the worksite and immediately underwent emergency surgery to relieve pressure from a brain bleed. The surgery was successful, and Dustin was transferred to the ICU. Dustin’s hospital transfer was so swift that he was without identification and was admitted under the code name Falcon.
On June 30, 2021, Darcy was able to visit Dustin for the first time since the accident. It was an enormous answer to prayer when Dustin was able to communicate with Darcy via hand squeezes, signals, and (to Darcy’s surprise) American Sign Language. He told Darcy he knew who she was and who the kids were. He knew he was a crane operator and knew all his friends and family.
Dustin has a long road to recovery ahead of him. While Dustin is receiving care at Community Regional Medical Center in Fresno, CA (over 2 hours away from home in Lodi, CA), Darcy and the kids will stay at Terry's House—a home away from home for families of patients in the hospital for extended periods of time.
The Meade/Bonifay family is overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and concern for Dustin, Darcy, and the kids. They are so thankful for the aid and kindness everyone has offered. Please continue to pray for Dustin, Darcy, Ruby, Mickey, and Emmeline. You can also follow more of Dustin’s story in our CaringBridge journal as he continues healing.
WAYS TO HELP: Right now, the Meades don't know the full financial impact this accident will have on their family (e.g. medical expenses, lost income, etc.). However, there are some immediate needs you can help with at this time:
1. Purchase Amazon care items for the Meade family. 2. Purchase an Amtrak gift card for family/caregiver travel. 3. Send cards and packages to: Meade Family Terry’s House Room #201 2730 Fresno St Fresno, CA 93721 4. Donate to the Meade Family GoFundMe campaign.
*Links to all of these efforts are found in the "Ways to Help" section of this CaringBridge journal. Thank you!
CaringBridge is a nonprofit social network dedicated to helping family and friends communicate with and support loved ones during a health journey. Learn more about CaringBridge.
