In a second, life can be turned upside down…
When a new medical issue & diagnoses turns Jon's life upside down, a little bit of support will go a long way to help put it right again.
Wellington
…which Jonathan Crerar learned earlier this year after suffering a lens dislocation of his left eye, resulting in vision loss, daily dizziness, headaches, and eye pressure, but surgery is a year away.
What caused it? Jon has Marfan Syndrome which impacts the body’s connective tissue - the 'glue’ holding it together. He is at risk of many issues, not just eyes, but heart, blood vessels (especially aorta), lungs, joints, spine, and more! The biggest risk is sudden aortic dissection.
Our 11yo daughter, Kenzie, was diagnosed with Marfan in 2021 in Australia. 75% of the time its inherited. Jon tested more than 2 years ago in NZ but found out due to his eye, his test was ‘lost’. A new test confirms it, resulting in a need to now change his whole career & life!
A self-employed solid plasterer & painter, his body his ultimate tool to earn a living. A dedicated painter, water-proofer, and tradesman since his teens, he went out on his own more than 10 years ago. Its hard work, requiring strength & endurance.
Marfan needs regular monitoring AND major lifestyle adjustments – all to minimise the risks - especially of a life-threatening aortic dissection. Heavy lifting is a big no! To have the best chance of living a long and healthy life, he must give up such physical work.
Jon can no longer work to support himself or our 14yo son in the only way he has known, but Marfan & vision loss in one eye, doesn’t meet disability support criteria. Life is tough while he's trying to find his feet again.
Rachel Bowater's involvement (page creator)
Although no longer his wife, I am co-parent with him, helping ensure our kids can get the best from us both, particularly while our son, Riley, lives in NZ with him, but also his friend, and biggest Marfan support and advocate.
Use of funds
To cover living costs for Jon and our son to remain in their current home, bridging a financial gap until Government support and/or new alternate work is found, potential training costs to help Jon find suitable alternate work, and private medical costs.
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Thank you so much, greatly appreciated! :)
Thank you so much, greatly appreciated :)
Thank you so much!!! Greatly appreciated 😊
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