My Dad is dying- help get Simon back to Australia

**To clarify, Simon is the beneficiary of this go fund me. For logistical purposes, and in order to expedite transfer of funds, Simon and Ashley had to set it up this way.**

Update, 6/14/2021: 
Thank you all again for your donations. Your generosity is amazing, and I am indebted to you all. 

To date, almost 30% of the goal has been achieved. Unfortunately, the financial obstacle of returning to Australia remains the same.
Last week, my dad was diagnosed with encephalitis of the brain, in addition to a cardiac event, and severe UTI. He was unable to speak or recognize family members. He was transported to Geelong Hospital to undergo further tests, and an MRI. 

Thankfully, my dad has been showing signs of improvement. Slow but steady.  He is now able to speak, to some degree, and take food orally. He can even enjoy a cup of coffee. The family in Australia has really rallied around, and can visit, although that has been difficult due to ridiculous restrictions.
I need to be there with him, and, with all humility and appreciation, am obliged to 'boost' this campaign. Words cannot express my thanks for all that you have done for me. Best wishes and fond regards to you all. 


(6/1/2021) I have never gone cap in hand in my life. However, this morning I received tragic news that my father is in the Critical Care Unit/ICU at Saint John of God Hospital, Geelong, Victoria, Australia. He is nearly 89 years old.

That stubborn old bloke has always been my strength, and now, he is at death’s door. 

I need to get back to Australia urgently. However, there are tremendous obstacles.

The cheapest commercial flight is $3,500+. Upon arrival, I will be subject to mandatory quarantine for 14 days, at my expense. Which, according to the Australian Consulate, amounts to $3,000. Although there are exemptions, the bureaucratic process in obtaining an exemption is a complete nightmare. And, even if successful, will require between 5-7 days of quarantine. 

In 2017, my mother went into irreversible critical care, resulting in her death. This occurred during tech week of The Crucible. The cast was amazing in their support and sympathy. I was prepared to immediately travel to Australia in the hope of seeing my mother before she died, which would have caused tremendous disruption in the production. My father said no; he said “your mother would want you to go on with the show, and she will watch you from heaven.” I was able to virtually appear at her funeral wake, and give my eulogy, in the back parking lot of the CNYP theatre, during intermission. And then return to the stage. 

I vowed I would not do the same for my father. 

I humbly request any financial assistance that you can provide in order that I may return to Australia and be with my father, this mountain of a man, who has raised six children, and has given me so much. I pray for your assistance with great humility and appreciation. I have spent my life trying to help and assist others, and it takes this, and only this situation to go cap in hand, in order to fulfill my promise to see my father before he passes. 

The sun is shining here, but there is a tempest, my heart and soul. For the first time in my life, I am asking for help.