Swift Current Man Flown Home After Rattlesnake Bite, $59K Funded

URGENT UPDATE: A Swift Current man, Daniel Fehr, has been successfully flown back to Saskatchewan after suffering a severe rattlesnake bite in Odessa, Texas. His return was made possible thanks to over $23,000 raised by the ICU staff who cared for him, contributing to the total $59,000 needed for medical transport.

Daniel was hospitalized since the end of July 2023, after the snake bite led to anaphylactic shock and cardiac arrest while golfing. His wife, Stephanie Fehr, and their family faced immense challenges navigating his care, especially since he lacked medical insurance. “I didn’t think we were ever gonna raise the funds,” Stephanie expressed, reflecting on the overwhelming situation. “I was hopeless.”

On Friday, Daniel landed in Regina, where he was transferred to the Regina General Hospital before moving to Swift Current. “If I have to drive two hours every day to be with him, that’s way better than 24 hours away,” Stephanie shared, highlighting the emotional toll this ordeal has taken on their family.

The generous contributions from the nursing staff, who were described by Stephanie as “a beautiful, beautiful staff,” played a crucial role in bringing Daniel home. They rallied together to support the Fehr family during this critical time, allowing them to overcome the first major hurdle in Daniel’s recovery.

Despite the challenges, Stephanie remains optimistic. A GoFundMe page established for their medical expenses has surpassed $46,000, providing some relief as they continue to face unexpected costs. “I can’t believe how many people have stepped up to help us,” she said, expressing gratitude for the support received.

As the family adjusts to being back in Saskatchewan, the focus remains on Daniel’s recovery. He remains in a coma, but Stephanie holds on to hope that he will awaken soon. “Tensions were getting pretty high in Texas,” she admitted, noting the frustration her children felt during their extended stay. “We just wanted to all come home.”

The Fehr family’s journey highlights the power of community support during a crisis. As they prepare for the next steps in Daniel’s recovery, they are thankful for every contribution that has made this moment possible. More updates are expected as Daniel’s condition evolves, and the family continues to navigate the road ahead.