Rallying Around the Phillips Family

Joshua Phillips sat down one day and his life changed forever.

He collapsed from a traumatic issue with his aorta.

He was lucky to survive. Phillips, who has Marfan's syndrome, underwent immediate open heart surgery. The surgery saved his life but left him paralyzed from the waist down, which doctors warned could happen.

Today he looks strong as he continues his battle at Spaulding Rehabiltation Hospital.

But he and his family face emotional and expensive upheavals.

They moved from an apartment that was not convenient for a wheelchair into the home of Joshua's mother-in-law.

That house, while more accommodating than an apartment, needed a ramp, a bathroom overhaul, added rooms and other work.

To raise money for that upgrade, a fund has been set up to help the family, which includes Josh, his wife Carissa, son Nicholas, 5, and daughter Genevieve, 2.

 A benefit for the family was held Saturday, May 21 at American Legion Post 92 in North Grafton.

Friends and family enjoyed a barbecue, listened to music and vied for raffle prizes.

Fundraising efforts continue for the family. 

Checks made payable to the Phillips Family Fund can be donated at any location.