Updated December 4, 2013

On 10/31/2013, my son, Travis was involved in a serious accident at work. He broke both hips, one leg, and fractured a vertabrae. A full recovery is expected but he will be confined to a wheel chair for many months to come. Like many American families, Travis and his family live from pay check to pay check, and this injury (and the resulting expenses) created a huge set them back for them.

Worker's Comp doesn't cover the multitude of 'little things' that are involved when an accident like this happens. Families incur unanticipated extra gas expenses, and meal expenses, and clothing expenses (like loose fitting clothes he can easily slip into), and so much more. Meanwhile, the income dates shift by weeks, but the bills don't, and many bills can't be put off during the lull in income. Everything changes and the stress levels rise along with the needs, especially when there are 5 children to consider.

How can you help? Donations may be sent to:

Travis Butterfield
11600 Shaw Rd
Charlevoix, MI 49720

or you may use the GIVE button above. Direct donations can be made through PayPal to: benefit@sagetyme.com

Cards and letters of encouragement are also welcome and can be sent to their mailing address above.Travis and Jamie are both feeling a lot of stress and anxiety right now, so any acts of kindness and consideration would be greatly appreciated.

Note: The family consists of Travis, his wife Jamie, daughters: Justice (15), Olivia (7), Alexis (6), and sons Thomas (11), and Daylin (4).

                     
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The accident:

Travis was working his shift at Petoskey Plastics, and he was in a designated "safe zone", when a 1000+ pound roll of plastic film and a pallet were accidently dislodged from a shelf over 50 feet above him. The roll of film hit him on the back, knocking him to the ground. It is truly a miracle that he is with us today. He did not cause the accident, and he/we do not blame anyone for what happened. It was... an accident... an unfortunate accident.

The prognosis

Travis' recovery period is expected to take up to two years. Yesterday the doctors discovered permanent nerve damage to one of his feet. At this time it is unclear as to how this will affect him in the future. It is likely that Travis will be able to walk again within 6 months, however, that does not mean he would be back to normal. Building up his strength and tolerance will take time, as will walking at a normal pace and stride. While it is a difficult set back, we are all indeed grateful that he is still here with us,