Tom’s Story

Site created on August 5, 2018

Tom was injured while riding a bull at the Sarpy County Fair. He struck his head on the back of the bull when it bucked up. He was transported to Bergan Mercy Medical Center.

Newest Update

Journal entry by Deanna Bartek

Today Tom was able to be discharged from Bergan Mercy, and was able to be transferred to Madonna to continue his Treatment and healing.

He still has some weakness on his left side, and is having some difficulty swallowing food. Today a tube was placed to get him some nutrients so he can continue to get stronger.

The last couple of days he has been confined to his bed and chair with occasional trips to the bathroom and walks with therapy. Things are about to change. No more just hanging out, it is time to put Tom to work at Madonna. He was disappointed to find out that Madonna herself was not going to be there. But, he quickly forgot about that when he found out that Madonna does in fact feed you meat, which he has been asking for since he woke up.

He continues to laugh and joke with the doctors, nurses, and family every day. To hear Tom joke around, no matter how many times you hear the same jokes, is great considering where we were a few days ago.

We have had firefighters and family members at our house, and they will continue to be there in the upcoming days and weeks as they are helping us with several projects around the house. Tom is a glass half full, project half done kind of guy. So it has been wonderful and humbling to have his firefighting family help out. We are eternally grateful. The firefighter’s explained to me that they often put their own projects on hold at home to help others, so Tom fits right in.

I can’t thank you all enough for everything everyone has done for our family and on behalf of our family. It truly means the world to us.

The next phase of the journey has begun, and we look forward to seeing Tom continue to surprise us with his progress.

 

Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Tom Stay Connected to Family and Friends

A $25 donation powers a page like Tom's for two weeks.

If you donate by May 12, your gift will be doubled, up to $10,000, thanks to a gift from Living Water Foundation.

Comments Hide comments

Show Your Support

See the Ways to Help page to get even more involved.

SVG_Icons_Back_To_Top
Top