On November 5th, 2025, Scott experienced a ground-level fall at home that resulted in a broken nose, broken collarbone, and a complete C4 spinal cord injury, leaving him paralyzed and without sensation below his chest. He then spent over 8 months in various hospital and rehabilitation settings, including WakeMed's STICU, Select Specialty in Durham, and, finally, at the incredible Shepherd Center in Atlanta, GA. It has been a bumpy road getting here, but he has finally (finally!) returned home. We could not be more grateful for all the support our amazing community has already contributed up to this point - whether it be his wonderful care team, kind words, prayers, money, meals, visits, a shoulder to cry on, etc. - we are so thankful for each and every person who has walked this journey with us. Although we are ecstatic to have him back, there is, and will continue to be, a great deal of time, energy, and other resources that are required to ensure Scott stays happy and healthy in the comfort of his and Joy's home. He requires someone to be with him at all times in case of an emergency, and has extensive medical needs (around the clock meds, urostomy, colostomy, total assistance for eating, bathing, and positioning, etc.). In light of all this, we have created this page to share various ways in which our community and support team can continue to assist, when / if you have the time or resources to do so. Anything would be a massive blessing. Please see additional notes below for ways you can assist the family during this time.
Meal Support: If you would like to make a meal, please know that it will primarily be for Joy. As his primary, around the clock caregiver, she has limited time to make her own meals. Additionally, Scott has strict diet restrictions due to his level of injury and tracheostomy. Single-serve meals that can quickly be reheated or frozen are best, if possible. Visits: Scott would love visitors! He enjoys hearing about how everyone is doing, playing trivia games, and watching TV (be prepared for high volume). This also provides Joy with precious time to perform her own selfcare, rest, or other tasks / errands. Please reach out to Joy or Sara to coordinate your visit. *His hearing has declined since his injury, so please be sure to increase your volume when speaking with him. **Depending on the time of your visit, tasks may include (in addition to just hanging out with Scott) administering medications, administering a water bolus through Scott's g-tube, emptying his foley bag, monitoring his stats (O2, HR, blood pressure). We have all the supplies needed and will ensure you are trained on any necessary tasks. We may also be able to coordinate timing of the visit to eliminate certain tasks (such as administering medication, bolus, etc.). Gift Cards & Amazon Wishlist: Short on time? No problem! Another great way to help out is through purchasing gift cards and / or Amazon wish list items. Preferred gift cards shown help Joy get needed groceries or other items when she is unable to run errands herself and helps keep their pantry stocked. Amazon wish list items are focused on medical supplies not covered by insurance and that are extremely helpful in caring for Scott's day-to-day needs.