Brad’s Story

Site created on December 23, 2021

Brad McElliott is a resilient man passionately dedicated to his family, work,community and to taking joy from every day as he works alongside his beloved wife Maria keeping their family joyful and prosperous.Brad and Maria have four beautiful children who they have raised to be strong young adults who give back to their communities, and to their family.

Brad’s difficult journey began with a diagnosis of Covid19 on Sept. 26, 2021 after having been fully vaccinated. His underlying condition of CLL (Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia) was well managed and under control at the time of his Covid diagnosis. In fact, just 2 days prior, he had mowed their huge, steeply sloped lawn as usual -no riding mower for him! - and was strong and healthy. After his Covid diagnosis, he entered the hospital for a short stay, improved and went home, but unfortunately returned with critical symptoms secondary to Covid on Oct. 29th, where he has remained in ICU until now. He had to be intubated to support his breathing while placed under heavy sedation.  

His family came home a few short weeks later when the medical staff told Maria it was time to gather her children and say goodbye. However, 24 hours after they arrived, and after each of his children was allowed to visit individually under strict Covid protocols, their father battled his way back, his lungs started improving against all odds. He was then diagnosed with micostrokes in multiple areas of the brain and is now fighting to come back to them as they take away sedation to wake him up. 

Thank you for visiting Brad’s site. Those who know him can attest to his fierce dedication to work and family, and his big, generous heart. For those who don’t, we are so grateful you have taken this time to be here, and maybe someday you’ll be able to meet this extraordinary man. Be safe and well, hug your families close, and we wish you peace, joy, and love.

Newest Update

HOME! April 11, 2022

Journal entry by Emily Bixby —

Hey everyone-

With extreme joy, I can let you know that BRAD IS HOME! After 146 days, tonight Brad will sleep in his own bed, in his own house.

There are no real words to express the relief our family feels today. Thank you to everyone who supported Brad and Maria and the rest of the family throughout these horrific 6 months. Thank you to Brad's bosses and coworkers at Piramal for your unwavering support. 

Of course, the hospital bill is forthcoming. While it's not fun to think about, we know that it will come. If you're in any position to toss $5 in the jar, you can do so here: https://bit.ly/BradMcElliott. If you're not, please don't worry... your thoughts & support mean the world to Brad and all of us.

He still has quite a bit of rehab to complete, but we are confident that being at home will help his recovery tenfold. He needs a walker to support himself while standing & walking, but we're sure it won't be for long. 

For now, it is enough that he is alive and well. And he is home. 

 

Love,

Emily

 

Read More of the journal titled "HOME! April 11, 2022"
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