Dear Editor,
This is the story of one of our own.
Ben Daniels is a lifelong Florida Keys resident, Marathon High School graduate, devoted father and someone who has quietly touched countless lives throughout our community through banking, real estate, coaching youth tennis, volunteering and simply being the kind of person who was always willing to help.
Above all else, Ben is a devoted father.
For the past year, Ben dedicated his life to caring for his son Noah, who requires around-the-clock care due to muscular dystrophy. He poured his heart, time, energy and savings into making sure Noah had everything he needed.
Today, Ben is fighting for his life.
About two months ago, Ben’s health began deteriorating rapidly, both physically and mentally. The lack of sleep and constant pressure took a toll, and Ben developed bilateral pneumonia, leading to a hospital admission. After being discharged, his health continued to spiral and he was rushed to Broward North Medical Center. While his treatment has focused on pneumonia, Ben’s condition has worsened to the point that he can no longer breathe without a ventilator. Despite numerous tests, doctors still do not know why he is unable to breathe independently. Now, Ben needs to be transferred to a different hospital for further testing, which can be very costly.
As Ben remains hospitalized, doctors continue searching for answers while his family faces the unimaginable challenge of caring for Ben and his two sons. Noah’s need for daily care hasn’t stopped simply because his father is in the hospital, and the financial and emotional burdens continue to grow.
The response from our community has been incredible. Friends have stepped in, prayers have poured in and neighbors throughout the Keys have rallied around the Daniels family with love and support. But this journey is far from over.
The Florida Keys has always been a community that takes care of its own. Today, one of our own needs us.
We’re simply asking you to help us share Ben’s story with the community. Whether someone shares his story, keeps the Daniels family in their prayers, or is able to contribute to the family’s official GoFundMe, every act of kindness makes a difference. Ben and Noah rely on this fund for urgent medical costs and keeping their home stable.
Sincerely,
Dani Crowley
Keys Weekly recently spoke with Ben’s brother, Bill, who confirmed Ben’s struggles. “Just a couple weeks ago we were expecting the worst,” said Bill. “And while he remains in serious condition we all know Ben is a fighter.” Donations can also be made at the Midas Touch as well as an account set up in Ben’s name at Centennial Bank.
