Recent GBN Graduate Recovering From Viral Meningitis: GoFundMe

NORTHBROOK, IL — Graduating from high school is supposed to be a time to celebrate after achieving one of life's most important milestones. That hasn't been the case for recent Glenbrook North graduate Mark Masarsky, who had to miss last Saturday's ceremony due to illness.

Masarsky, a healthy, young athlete GBN, was diagnosed with viral meningitis/Encephalitis and was put on life support. Luckily, Masarsky was taken off life support Wednesday and is currently recovering from his illness at the hospital.

Alina Elperin started a GoFundMe for Masarsky on behalf of his mother, Valeria Masarsky, who coaches ice skating in Northbrook and Glenview. Elperin says Mark's whole family is at his bedside around the clock, and Valeria is unable to coach. The GoFundMe is seeking to raise $36,000 for the family. As of Thursday morning, 441 donors have raised over $35,000.

"This illness is a huge shock to everyone, but we know Mark is strong and will overcome this," Elperin said.

Last weekend, Masarsky developed high fevers and an "awful" headache, according to Elperin. The following day, he suffered a seizure and had to be taken to the hospital's intensive care unit and put on life support.

After being taken off life support, Elperin said Masarsky was able to walk "a little bit" and was transferred to the general medical floor, where he is "making steady progress."

To learn more about the GoFundMe and make a donation, visit the website here.