A Message from Tom's Friends

After suffering a stroke, teacher Tom Hutchins is working to recover as much of the mobility, comfort and quality of life that he had prior to his stroke. His ultimate goal is to return to the classroom and resuming his teaching career. He needs our emotional and financial support to get through this hardship.

For the last 15 years, Tom Hutchins has taught history, social studies and gifted programs. Throughout his teaching career, Tom has been in a wheelchair. Through his dedication to his job and passion for education, Tom has demonstrated to his students how inspiration and motivation can be used to overcome adversity.

Beloved teacher suffers stroke

On October 31st, 2012, Tom Hutchins suffered a stroke. He was hospitalized for seven days, then spent two and a half weeks in Bryn Mawr Rehab, an intensive inpatient rehabilitation facility. Tom returned home on November 24 to be with his wife Jen, who is a teacher's assistant.

Coping with new physical limitations

Since his stroke, Tom has had to relearn basic movements and adapt to physical limitations and chronic pain. He has worked tirelessly to increase his stamina, regain his physical strength and remain mentally focused. His main focus right now is to recover as much as of his health and well being as possible. To do this requires time, support and patience. He is working towards his ultimate goal: to return to the classroom, see his students again and resume his teaching career.

Help Tom Get the Mobility Chair Recommended by His Therapists

In order to return to work, Tom would benefit greatly from an outdoor mobility chair with tilt and recline features to help alleviate his chronic pain. Six years ago, Tom's coverage would have paid for this type of mobility chair. Today this chair is not considered “medically necessary” under that same coverage. This despite his therapists specifically recommended this type of chair.

Currently Tom’s insurance covers a less durable, indoor mobility chair which has less functionality and would adversely impact Tom's ability to lead an active life. 

Assistance with medical bills is a priority

We also hope to help Tom defray the cost of medical expenses not fully covered by insurance. Tom and Jen have been living on a significantly reduced household income since Tom's stroke. Your financial contribution and emotional support will help greatly.

Thank you for your support <3

Tom and Jen are incredibly humbled to ask for support to help them overcome this life-changing event. Tom, Jen and their family and friends thank you all in advance for any and all support you can contribute during this fundraiser. Tom and Jen are blessed to have a supportive community of family and friends. We ask that you share this campaign far and wide.

Other ways you can help

• Click to tweet, "Help teacher who had stroke get back to classroom, students"
  
  
• Use the #TomRocksDE hashtag on Twitter and share this campaign
  
  
• Share this fundraiser on your Facebook wall and Facebook pages
  
  

With all the appreciation in our hearts,

The #TomRocksDE crew and Tom and Jen

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P.S. You're invited to help celebrate Tom's birthday with us on March 15 in New Castle, DE!