Chris’s Story

Site created on May 7, 2020

On May 2nd, the Kudela family of Gilbertsville, PA suffered an unimaginable tragedy.  Chris Kudela was inside the family home when a gas leak caused an explosion and fire.  We are so thankful that his wife Megan, 5-year old son Brody and father-in-law Bob were not injured.  Unfortunately one of the family dogs, Sam was killed immediately while the second family dog Nacho suffered burns and abrasions and continues to need care.  Chris was airlifted to the burn unit of Lehigh Valley hospital where he has been fighting for his life.  Because of the hospital’s Covid-19 protocols, his family is unable to be with him during this difficult time.  While this tragedy is devastating, we find comfort and joy in the outpouring of love and support from each and every one of you.  The family is reaching out to as many of you as possible while prioritizing the needs of Chris, Megan and Brody at this time.  We will be updating this site and documenting the journey ahead for Chris and his family.  We are thankful for the wonderful care he is receiving from his nurses, doctors and surgeons and are happy to report that Chris underwent his first of several anticipated skin graft surgeries this morning and has tolerated that procedure well (win).  He remains in critical condition on a ventilator and is being kept as comfortable as possible by his healthcare team.  He is strong. He is a fighter. He needs your prayers to ensure he remains strong and infection free.  His wife and son remain strong. They need your prayers to continue to walk step by step through this journey as well.  We are all united by our love for Chris, a husband, father, son, brother, in-law, uncle, nephew, cousin, co-worker, friend, neighbor, band-mate and community member.  We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your prayers, calls, cards, donations and messages of support and encouragement.  There are no words adequate enough.  Life is precious and worth the heartaches along the way.  We are grateful that your paths have crossed ours. And your prayers have carried us all this far.  I will continue to post updates here as we receive new information about Chris’s health.  Thank you for caring! ❤️🙏💪 https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-kudela-family?utm_source=customer&utm_medium=copy_link-tip&utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet

Newest Update

Journal entry by Kathy Cole

It's been a while since I posted.  Chris is home with his family and working hard each day on his physical therapy regimen. Each day is long and tough but he is determined to get back as much mobility as humanly possible! He can't skip a day and must push through the harder days which takes so much mental fortitude. He will soon be facing some additional surgeries so your continued prayers and positivity are very much appreciated - its the last place any of us want him to return to but these procedures aren't an option.  Beyond the physical there are also challenges ensuring the benefits he so critically needs will start/continue and his wife Megan has been his strongest advocate working tirelessly with that goal in mind (not an easy task either).  Chris and the entire family are so grateful to all of you who have helped, reached out or who have cheered him on in some way.  Stay safe and healthy and God bless you and your families.  
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