Kody’s love for the game:
Kodiak has spent much of his life dedicated to hockey, from representing Belleville West High School to competing in the Scott Hockey League and various adult recreational leagues and tournaments. He’s also an avid St. Louis Blues fan.
A Family Man:
He is a devoted husband and father to three young children, and he has lived with epilepsy for most of his life. Since the age of seven, he has managed seizures and their associated challenges. For many years, these seizures were well-controlled and did not significantly impact his daily life.
Waiting it out:
Almost two years on, Kodiak’s seizures are considered refractory, meaning they can’t be controlled by medication. He still has frequent episodes, can’t drive anymore, and is restricted to certain jobs to keep himself and others safe. Doctors now believe his best shot at improving his quality of life is brain surgery, specifically a resection to remove the part of his brain triggering the seizures. This involves extensive testing, several hospital stays, and ongoing specialist care. So far, Kodiak has already spent two separate 10-day stretches in the hospital, along with countless appointments and missed work.
Current situation:
Approximately a year ago, doctors recommended disability, but Kodiak was not prepared to stop working, as he has always been determined to provide for his family. Now, after nearly two years of perseverance, his doctors indicate that this challenging journey could continue for at least another two years. He has been unable to work full-time for over six months and is now confronting the reality of transitioning to disability due to his inability to drive or safely perform his job.
