Donnie's Cancer Fight

Donnie Bonelli has spent the past nine years as a dedicatedand self-employed illustrator, graphic artist, photographer, videographer and video editor. He has worked long hours, met his deadlines, and contributed to people's businesses in ways that few others could. 


During the past two years, especially, life has hit him hard, business slowed down drastically without warning, and he determined that the way to improve his life was to seek employment. Almost immediately, at the end of February, a connection was made that resulted in what he referred to as his dream job, utilizing many of his talents and well-developed skills.


Shortly after his new employment began, while driving from a vehicle inspection, his car was impounded. The impound fees far surpassed what the car was worth. Since that time, he has been spending around $1,000 every month on Uber to get to and from his job. 


On March 28, not quite one month after his dream job began, he was diagnosed with tongue cancer, and, as many of you know, he had surgery on May 5, having more than one half of his tongue, and much of the floor of his mouth removed and reconstructed, and his neck dissected. He is recovering well, and his prognosis is good.


Donnie is preparing to start radiation therapy soon, and will need to travel to the hospital 5 days a week for 6 weeks on top of work. There are not enough hours in the day between treatment and work for public transportation to meet his needs. 


Once we learned what his treatment schedule will be, it became urgent to solve the transportation issue.


While GoFund Me is not something either of us has considered before, it is the best choice at this time.  Donnie is stubborn and fiercely independent, but after consulting with family and friends, has agreed to allow us to raise funds on his behalf. 


We have friends who have been in the Auto Sales industry for over 50 years, and have agreed to help find a good car for a good price, and, with their experience, have advised us on the total needed with industry rates being what they are. Also included in the total is one year of insurance.


We know this is a huge "ask." We take this seriously and respectfully. Please know that all of your prayers have made a huge difference, and we are truly grateful for them. Please know that if you cannot help with thisGoFundMe, we love you and know you would if you could. If we end up with extra funds, they will go toward paying out-of-pocket medical expenses.


We deeply thank you for reading, considering, donating and sharing this with anyone you know that might know Donnie or have benefited from his friendship, his art, or his music, or with anyone that might be inclined to help. 


Any amount is gratefully received, and we understand that many might choose to be anonymous. It is our prayer that our heartfelt thanks will be felt, even if we don't  know it was you that helped.  

Gratefully, Tina and Donnie




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