Tree cutting accident leaves husband and father facing below the knee amputation—please help

On Friday, Aug 22, my brother, Derrek Schuch, was in a terrible work accident while running his tree cutting business. He accidentally backed a piece of equipment into a stump grinder and sustained devastating injuries to his foot. He was life-flighted to Munson Medical Center in Traverse City, where surgeons worked tirelessly to save his foot. After surgery, we received the heartbreaking news that his foot cannot be saved. He has given consent, and will undergo a below the knee amputation very soon.

This has been an incredibly shocking and difficult time for our entire family. His wife, Amy, is at the hospital by his side, along with our parents, as he faces this life-changing surgery and the long road of recovery ahead.

Many years ago, because of a debilitating illness, Derrek had surgery on both of his hips. One hip was successful, and one was not. His left leg, which is his “good hip” is the leg that the amputation will be on, which feels extra awful. 😢 Because Derrek works for himself, he does not have health insurance. The medical bills for the life-flight, hospital stay, surgery, and upcoming amputation are already overwhelming—and this is only the beginning. He will need extensive rehabilitation, ongoing medical care, and eventually prosthetics to help him walk again. Beyond the medical costs, he will be unable to work for quite some time, meaning financial stress is added to an already unbearable situation.

We are setting up this fundraiser to help ease some of the financial burden so that Derrek and Amy can focus on healing, recovery, and adjusting to this new reality. Every single donation, no matter the amount, will go directly toward his medical expenses, rehabilitation, and the care he will need in the months ahead.

If you are unable to give financially, we ask that you share this page and keep Derrek, Amy, their children, grandchildren and our family in your prayers. Your love, support, and encouragement mean more to us than words can express.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for walking alongside us during this unimaginable time.

❤️ With gratitude,

Amber and Family