Support for a Beautiful Life
Donation protected
In 2014, Frank Chaves was named the Chicago Tribune’s Dance Chicagoan of the Year. Frank was artistic director of River North Dance Chicago for 23 years and just last October retired with a glorious tribute performance of his work at the historic Auditorium Theatre. You would never guess that an awardee of this kind was, just a decade earlier, diagnosed with Syringomyelia, a degenerative spinal-cord condition which, in his case, has no cause nor cure. The disease involves a rare spinal cord tumor that results in chronic pain and has caused Frank to lose the use of his legs. A tragic fate for such a talented dancer, teacher and choreographer.
You might also guess that a person diagnosed with a condition of this severity would be dejected and pessimistic. But no, this amazing artist and friend is also one of the kindest, gentlest and most hopeful people I know. Frank just celebrated his 56th birthday on April 17, and even though we were surrounded by hospital equipment, there was nothing but smiles all around.
However, no amount of optimism can detract from the gravity of the situation. Recently Frank was beginning to lose strength in his arms and hands. And he underwent his fifth surgery on March 7 to stop the decline in his upper body. While this has shown some signs of success, his legs have declined even further and he will need in-home health care a minimum of four hours per day.
As one can imagine, the medical expenses are extraordinary. In addition to his motorized wheelchair and mobility van, Frank needs a special wheelchair for the shower, a hospital bed to enable him to get in and out on his own, daily home care and an array of medical supplies. The first year of home care expenses are expected to be more than $70,000. Only a fraction of these latest expenses are covered under a regular health insurance policy.
While Frank does not ask for much and pride makes doing so difficult for both him and Mark, we would love to come together as a community to help offset their medical bills. We are so fortunate to have been touched by Frank’s presence in our lives, and I hope that we can give some of this love and support back to him.
Our goal for this campaign is to raise $35,000. Any amount will be greatly appreciated.
Gratefully,
Sandi Cooksey, Gail Kalver, Carol Fox, Howard Girovich, Scott Hughes, Jim Gosse & John Pratt and Cathryn Schmaltz
You might also guess that a person diagnosed with a condition of this severity would be dejected and pessimistic. But no, this amazing artist and friend is also one of the kindest, gentlest and most hopeful people I know. Frank just celebrated his 56th birthday on April 17, and even though we were surrounded by hospital equipment, there was nothing but smiles all around.
However, no amount of optimism can detract from the gravity of the situation. Recently Frank was beginning to lose strength in his arms and hands. And he underwent his fifth surgery on March 7 to stop the decline in his upper body. While this has shown some signs of success, his legs have declined even further and he will need in-home health care a minimum of four hours per day.
As one can imagine, the medical expenses are extraordinary. In addition to his motorized wheelchair and mobility van, Frank needs a special wheelchair for the shower, a hospital bed to enable him to get in and out on his own, daily home care and an array of medical supplies. The first year of home care expenses are expected to be more than $70,000. Only a fraction of these latest expenses are covered under a regular health insurance policy.
While Frank does not ask for much and pride makes doing so difficult for both him and Mark, we would love to come together as a community to help offset their medical bills. We are so fortunate to have been touched by Frank’s presence in our lives, and I hope that we can give some of this love and support back to him.
Our goal for this campaign is to raise $35,000. Any amount will be greatly appreciated.
Gratefully,
Sandi Cooksey, Gail Kalver, Carol Fox, Howard Girovich, Scott Hughes, Jim Gosse & John Pratt and Cathryn Schmaltz
Organizer and beneficiary
Carol L. Fox
Organizer
Chicago, IL
Frank Chaves
Beneficiary
