Karl was admitted to the hospital on July 25, 2025 after experiencing shortness of breath and swelling in his legs. What began as what seemed like a skin infection quickly escalated, and he was diagnosed with severe sepsis with shock. Since then, we’ve learned that Karl has a serious heart valve infection (aortic valve endocarditis), caused by a Staph (MSSA) bloodstream infection, along with other complications including: Fluid around his heart (pericardial effusion with tamponade) – which required an emergency drainage procedure on July 31 Acute kidney injury Lung fluid buildup Chronic venous ulcers Sleep apnea, which adds challenges to recovery Karl is currently hospitalized at Mercy Hospital in Rogers, Arkansas, where he is receiving excellent care. Despite the severity of his condition, he has remained alert and stable in recent days. His infection is improving thanks to strong IV antibiotics, and his breathing has stabilized without the need for intensive oxygen support. His care team continues to closely monitor his heart, kidney, and lung function. Next Steps Karl’s heart valve has been significantly affected by the infection, and he is now being transferred to Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis for specialized heart valve replacement surgery. This is a critical next step in his recovery, and the transition is currently being coordinated by his care team. How You Can Help Karl’s family is doing their best to stay by his side, but the travel and time away from home is adding up quickly. If you feel moved to help, gift cards for food, hotels, or gas would be deeply appreciated as the family prepares to travels back and forth and stays in St. Louis to support Karl through surgery and recovery.