Returning the Favor

Two years ago, I had the pleasure of meeting Rick Jacquez, a beloved dedicated cook in a residential treatment center for youth, and a full time care-taker for his bed-bound wife at home.  Rick never fell victim to  the "another day,  another dollar" burn-out mentality that we all to often experience in this field of work. Instead, he came to work every day with the humble goal to positively impact our youth.  No matter the circumstances, he was always in a gratified head space. He treated every person who came through the kitchen with kindness, dignity and respect. Anyone who took the time to talk to Rick in passing was likely to become intrigued by his dark quirky personality and sarcastic humor. For me and so many of the staff and youth population, Rick became an instant friend, a responsive sounding board for all of life's complaints AND a reliable source for double servings of the foods we loved.  :D Rick unexpectedly fell terminally ill in October, 2018. It was discovered that he had a super massive infection in his stomach, as well as an unreal invasion of cancer in his stomach and liver. The doctors gave him less than a month to live. But as the meaning of the name "Rick" implies, he presented with "brave power" and was "hardy" as can be. He managed to survive the infection which brought on 4 dangerous surgeries, then, leave the ICU early and return home to care for himself and his wife.  As he moves into chemotherapy now, the doctor remains firm that he literally days to live. Rick is still fighting though, simply and selflessly because he wants to come back to work to help the kids, and continue caring for his wife.  Obviously, illness like this comes with a complete loss of income and insurmountable bills. Financial support may or may not make any difference with the bills that Rick is facing, but it could help put some food on the table. More so, showing Rick that we care about him and we have joined together in an effort to help him, would make his days left here with us nothing short of blissful.  Please donate if you can. If not, write a hopeful note, say a prayer, or meditate on healing and peace for this amazing, deserving man.