As many of you know, my brother Rick has been battling Stage IV stomach cancer since his diagnosis in February 2019. Somehow, he’s been able to endure the unimaginable and navigate his illness with quiet determination, humility and humour but then again, if you know Rick Cooper, that comes as no surprise.
Rick is the guy that hosts all the parties, plans the get-togethers and adventurous trips. The guy that makes a big fuss over the people he loves the most! He is the epicentre of fun, laughter and great times. He’s the guy cooking your meal at the BBQ and the first one to get his groove on when his favourite song is cranked! Rick is also the first person to give to others, with his whole heart, when they are struggling or in crisis. Rick will build you up, tell you your worth and is the most loyal and supportive of friends.
Rick’s character and strength has been tested more times than seems imaginable this past year. That’s what this horrible disease does…it tests, and it tries to tear you down. He has endured numerous, painful hospital stays, three major surgeries, many invasive procedures, 9 months of aggressive chemotherapy and is currently enduring another round of chemotherapy.
I have always said that Rick’s word is “Grit”. Merriam-Websters definition of “Grit” is Firmness of mind or spirit: unyielding courage in the face of hardship or danger. Yes, I think I picked the right word for this amazing human. I couldn’t be more proud to be his sister.
Rick’s goal was to receive treatment in Germany but with the current state of our world and Covid-19, it simply isn’t possible at this time. He has to build up his strength for such a trip. Rick was able to find a local clinic that can offer some of the innovative treatments that are offered in Germany (unfortunately, not all, as our hands are tied medically in Canada with what is available).
Our goal is to show Rick some love…for him to receive the same love that he has put out into the world his entire life. So many of you ask me and my family how you can help or what you can do. We understand that there is so much uncertainty and fear in the world right now but if you would like to contribute to Rick’s treatments at the new clinic (even $20 can go a long way when contributions are combined which is why we called this “20 for Treatment”), we would be most grateful.
If you can help…that’s wonderful! If you cannot…that’s perfectly okay too. We just want to lessen the heavy load Rick’s carrying and help him on his journey toward healing and comfort.
Thank you so very much. Stay healthy, stay safe, and love your people harder. We are all in this together. Buckets of love to each and every one of you.
Elizabeth and Family
Rick is the guy that hosts all the parties, plans the get-togethers and adventurous trips. The guy that makes a big fuss over the people he loves the most! He is the epicentre of fun, laughter and great times. He’s the guy cooking your meal at the BBQ and the first one to get his groove on when his favourite song is cranked! Rick is also the first person to give to others, with his whole heart, when they are struggling or in crisis. Rick will build you up, tell you your worth and is the most loyal and supportive of friends.
Rick’s character and strength has been tested more times than seems imaginable this past year. That’s what this horrible disease does…it tests, and it tries to tear you down. He has endured numerous, painful hospital stays, three major surgeries, many invasive procedures, 9 months of aggressive chemotherapy and is currently enduring another round of chemotherapy.
I have always said that Rick’s word is “Grit”. Merriam-Websters definition of “Grit” is Firmness of mind or spirit: unyielding courage in the face of hardship or danger. Yes, I think I picked the right word for this amazing human. I couldn’t be more proud to be his sister.
Rick’s goal was to receive treatment in Germany but with the current state of our world and Covid-19, it simply isn’t possible at this time. He has to build up his strength for such a trip. Rick was able to find a local clinic that can offer some of the innovative treatments that are offered in Germany (unfortunately, not all, as our hands are tied medically in Canada with what is available).
Our goal is to show Rick some love…for him to receive the same love that he has put out into the world his entire life. So many of you ask me and my family how you can help or what you can do. We understand that there is so much uncertainty and fear in the world right now but if you would like to contribute to Rick’s treatments at the new clinic (even $20 can go a long way when contributions are combined which is why we called this “20 for Treatment”), we would be most grateful.
If you can help…that’s wonderful! If you cannot…that’s perfectly okay too. We just want to lessen the heavy load Rick’s carrying and help him on his journey toward healing and comfort.
Thank you so very much. Stay healthy, stay safe, and love your people harder. We are all in this together. Buckets of love to each and every one of you.
Elizabeth and Family
Organizer
Elizabeth Major
Organizer
Whitby, ON