UPDATE: Pat Ross’ GoFundMe campaign goal has been raised to $35,000. In its first day, the campaign has raised $24,861. (Updated 1/5/15 at 8:15 a.m.)
Warren Wilson teacher Pat Ross always wanted to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro. But the effort may have been too much. Pat suffered a gastroinstestinal tear that sent him to a hospital ICU with septic shock. His son is now raising funds to cover medical costs via here via gofundme. He hopes to raise $25,000, and thanks to a caring community, the campaign has raised just over $15,000 in 20 hours. His son writes:
This Go Fund Me is for my dad, Pat Ross.
After summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro with my brother on New Year’s Day of this year, Pat suffered a gastrointestinal tear that has left him in critical condition. After receiving emergency surgery in Moshi, Tanzania, my brother has had him transferred to Nairobi, Kenya, where he is currently hospitalized for septic shock in the intensive care unit after a second surgery. My brother, Chaney, remains in Africa with him.
As his condition is incredibly severe and was entirely unexpected, medical costs have exceeded $20,000 and until now, have not been covered by insurance. Even if insurance can be activated, out-of-network costs will be exorbitant.
Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro has been a lifelong dream of my dad’s and I couldn’t be more proud that he achieved his goal shortly after his 60th birthday. Pat was largely able to embark on this adventure because of the support of my incredible brother, Chaney. Creating the opportunity for Pat was a mountain in itself and has taken many years of saving and hard work to make happen. As he was in excellent health at his departure, this outcome was not what anyone expected.
For those of you who may not know my dad or haven’t seen him in awhile, all I can say is that he never stops working for his family and for his students at Warren Wilson College. He has taught me how to love people and to care about the Earth. I am so grateful for my dad and imagine that there are many others out there who have as deep appreciation for him as I do.
The proceeds of this fundraiser will be used to help cover Pat’s medical costs as well as support the rest of his family as they do what they can to stabilize his condition and bring him home to North Carolina.
Truly anything helps. If you’re unable to contribute monetarily, please send Pat your love and your prayers.
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