A man living in Olds is in recovery after fracturing three vertebrae in neck during a diving incident last Tuesday.
A GoFundMe page was launched shortly after Max Merland underwent surgery recently. He is the father of a two-year-old boy, Elliot.
“Currently, he has some movement in his arms, minimal movement in his fingers, and no feeling in his legs,” the GoFundMe page said.
“Max is handling the situation incredibly well, and is already winning over all the nurses in the unit and becoming known for his sweet attitude, constant smile, and the fact that he never complains. He’s working hard in respiratory and physical therapy, asking what else he can do beyond what they have planned for the day.”
Merland and his father live in Olds, but the majority of his family is in Texas. His mother is working around travel restrictions to be with him as soon as possible, the online fundraising page added.
“We’re staying hopeful that his mobility will improve, however, he does have a long road ahead of him. Over what’s been estimated as the next year and a half, he’ll have a lot of time in the hospital, in rehab and away from work,” the GoFundMe page said.
“Regular living costs, medical expenses, and being away from work will all add up to a pretty big financial burden.”
Merland’s friends from work – Zach, Kyle and Marco – launched the GoFundMe to help “in whatever way” possible.
“We’d really like to help Max just like he’s helped all of us so many times, and any donations, words of encouragement and prayer are really appreciated.”
For more information or to donate, search “Support for Max & his family” on www.gofundme.com. About $4,500 has been raised so far.
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