SeekingABrightFuture

**Meet the Brights!** 😊

Karen and Matthew Bright have selflessly dedicated years of service to our community. You might have seen them playing Santa at the Kingwood Civic Center or coaching your local baseball team. They've also led cooking classes in Kingwood, teaching families how to cook at home and save money. Matthew served as a pastor at the church atop Birds Creek. The Brights truly exemplify shining lights in our community.

They are proud parents to an older adult son, Matthew and adopted 2 grandchildern Gabe and Lilly . Sadly, they also lost one of older son, Josh, a few years ago. With the help of a not so small village the kids are cared for and going to school, starting basketball and much more. With being so young they are showing true resilience, bravery,  and compassion for their parents situation. But also miss them very much. 

Almost a year ago, Matthew underwent quadruple bypass surgery at Mon General. The operation was successful, and his heart is strong. However, complications arose afterward when, during recovery, he suffered a massive stroke. This resulted in a serious brain bleed, and the family was told to prepare for the worst. Miraculously, Matthew survived, but his recovery has been extremely challenging. He has lost the use of the right side of his body and cannot stand, walk, or sit up without assistance. Communication has also been severely affected—he understands what he wants to say, but his words often come out incorrectly.

Because of his condition, Matthew requires round-the-clock care, including help with lifting and transferring. Unfortunately, insurance only covers this care for 21 days at a time, forcing the family to seek private facilities, which is an overwhelming financial burden on Karen. Matthew is unable to work, and Karen is also facing her own health challenges which forced her into early retirement. 

In June, Karen received a kidney transplant after years on dialysis. Her recovery was complicated when she was diagnosed with a potential life-threatening virus from her new kidney. She’s still undergoing treatment, and her heart health has recently become a concern. Amidst caring for Matthew, managing her health, and supporting their family, they have faced an extraordinary series of hardships.

As we look forward to a brighter future for the Brights, we ask for your support. Any donation you can offer will help lighten their financial load and bring hope during this difficult time.

Thank you for your kindness and compassion