Support continues to pour in for Steinbach’s Tasha Wiese, as the local woman recovers from multiple amputations and a life-threatening illness. Among those rallying behind her are Keith and Talia Comer, former Christian musicians now living as missionaries in England, who remember Wiese as one of their most devoted fans.
She was moved to the Intermediate ICU nearly a week ago and is showing consistent signs of improvement, according to an update on the GoFundMe page set up to support her recovery. Her kidney function remains stable, meaning she has not required dialysis in recent days. Wiese is now speaking more often through a tracheotomy valve and has been able to eat more as well.
“Although Tasha has made some great steps forward, we know that she still has a lot of work ahead of her,” the update reads. “The cost of prosthetics alone for Tasha will be very expensive. There is no way for us to give Tasha back what she has lost, but we would love to be able to lessen the struggle for her.”
Wiese’s life changed dramatically after what began as a cold progressed into septic shock. She was airlifted from Steinbach to Winnipeg, where doctors were forced to amputate both of her hands and both legs above the knees in order to save her life.
GoFundMe campaign passes halfway mark - Click here to make a donation
So far, over half of the campaign’s $100,000 goal has been raised. Organizers say funds will help with the high cost of prosthetics, wheelchairs, ramps, and modifications to the Wiese family’s home.
Talia and Keith Comer met Wiese while touring in Christian rock bands more than a decade ago — Talia with Seventh Day Slumber and Keith with Manic Drive. Both bands played in Manitoba during their North American tours, where they met Wiese and were immediately struck by her energy and encouragement.
Talia says, even though it was 15 years ago, they remember Wiese and her impact on them. “She was so consistently present. When you think about a good Christian music fan — a friend of all the bands — it’s Tasha.”
The couple, now based in England with their two daughters, say they were devastated when they saw the news about Wiese’s health on social media.
“When I read the caption and clicked the article, I was in shock,” says Talia. “I was heartbroken. It was late at night, and I ran and told Keith because Tasha is one that made such an impact on us.”
Couple urges continued prayers for Wiese
Now serving in relational ministry overseas, the Comers are asking fellow believers to continue praying for Wiese and her family.
“I think this time is to say, ‘God sees you, Tasha. He loves you. He knows what’s going on, and He’s here for you — and so are we,’” says Talia.
The family behind the fundraising campaign says they are grateful for every prayer, donation and message of support.
“Please help us spread this GoFundMe so we can help ease the financial burden for Brendan and Tasha,” the latest update says. “Thank you again to all of you who have donated, all of the prayers, and the kind words. We will be forever grateful for the support.”
-With files from Sylvia St. Cyr.