Tom McLaughlin's Medical Fund

Tom McLaughlin, my dad, has the most incredible work ethic I have ever encountered.  He is a strong, generous and selfless man who never has a second thought about putting the needs of others before his own.  Be it a friend, a colleague, his family, or a stranger in need, my dad taught me the value of generosity and standing up for those who cannot stand up for themselves.  I admire and love him more than words can describe.  Recently, two sores on his right leg became infected and the infection could not be kept under control.  Knowing that this infection could be life threatening, he continued to work 12 hour over night shifts in fear that taking the necessary time off of work to properly treat the wounds would cause the loss of his job and ultimately hurt his family.  So, he continued to work while seeking out patient care and antibiotics.  The infection continued to grow and he was ultimately referred to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN.  During the intitial consultation the medical team pleaded with him to stay and let them treat his legs. My mom and I begged him to stay, but his work ethic and the responsibility he felt to ensure that his family, primarily his 15 year old son was provided for, was too strong and he returned home just in time to work 2 overnight shifts in a row.  He was back at the Mayo Clinic a few days later with his medical team hoping that in patient treatment during his days off might get the infection under control.  On the morning that he was to return home, he was in no better condition. The infection and the 2 large wounds on his legs continued to grow.  His doctor called his employer advocating for him, expressing that this was life threatening and that they needed more time to care for him. Sadly, it made no difference.  It was made clear that if he called in sick, he would lose his job, and he did.  One week later, after around the clock care and two surgeries, a wound vacuum was placed on his leg and a picc line in his arm to allow for IV meds to continue after his release from the hospital.   He went home to no job and multiplying medical bills.   He does not qualify for unemployment since he cannot immediately return to work, and disability can take up to 6 months to be granted, let alone to begin receiving benefits.  We would ask that anyone who has the ability to contribute to his medical and living costs as he completes his treatment to please consider donating.  I know that if it was someone else in his situation he would lend a hand or a dollar without a second thought. From the bottom of my heart, I hope many of you will do the same.  Also, please, please share this story.  I have included a link to the article written about his experience that has now been shared by USA Today.  Our family hopes that by sharing his story and by encouraging conversation, we might promote change to protect other hardworking individuals from the fear and reprecussions of falling ill and having their world fall apart as a result.

USA Today