Help Support Nelson's Road to Recovery ❤️‍

Help Support Nelson Paganacci’s Road to Recovery ❤️‍

Hi, I’m Catherine Brinkley. I know Nelson Paganacci as an incredible person and co-worker—some of you may know him as your all-time favorite AHA instructor or the king of lame dad jokes. But beyond that, he’s a husband, a father, and a son. And right now, his family needs him more than ever.

Nelson is a devoted flight paramedic and an extraordinary instructor—the kind of guy who shows up, gives his all, and makes everyone around him better, whether in the classroom or out in the field. A true lifesaver—literally. Now, after major heart surgery, he needs our help.

On April 23, 2025, Nelson thought he was just dealing with a classic GERD flare-up. He took some Tums but still felt a bit off, so he went to the fire station for an EKG—everything looked normal. Thankfully, he followed up with his doctor just in case, and bloodwork revealed a dangerously high troponin level. Things escalated quickly, and Nelson was rushed into emergency open-heart surgery. He underwent a three-vessel coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) and had four chest tubes placed.

He now faces a long and challenging recovery. Nelson won’t be able to return to work for quite some time. His amazing wife, Denise, will be by his side every step of the way, supporting him through rehab while carrying the full weight of their household. Their children are traveling from across the country to be with them during this difficult time.

Nelson has spent his life helping others. Now it’s our turn to help him. 

Every dollar raised will go directly to the Paganacci family to help cover daily living expenses and the many unexpected costs that come with a major surgery like this.

Thank you so much for your kindness, support, and love.

Fundraiser by Catherine Brinkley : Donate to Nelson's Post-Surgery Care and Recovery