Brain Stem Surgery

Hi my name is Rebecca King. Last month my cousin Matthew Place was suddenly and unexpectedly diagnosed with a brain tumor and a large cyst in his brain stem. After receiving the news from his doctor he was immediately transported from the doctor's office to the hospital by ambulance. Immediately many more tests were completed and his doctors collaborated on a strategy to remove the tumor. One week following his shocking diagnosis he had the tumor removed as well as several vertebrae in his neck. As a result of the surgery and the sensitivity of the brain stem, he was left partially paralyzed on his entire right side. Matt, who lives alone in Louisiana, has always been a strong and independent man who loved to work outside with his hands. Unfortunately, he is now unable to drive, work or take care of every day tasks. His savings is already gone but in the process of waiting for disability assistance, which can take up to six months. Until then he has no income or assistance with simple daily personal or household tasks. He has tremendous pain on the right side of his body every moment of the day due to the permanent spinal cord damage that occurred. Matt lives alone and can use financial help for his basic needs until his disability assistance comes through. Along with his pain, worry and recovery he was recently told by his landlord that he will be evicted if his rent is not paid. I urge everyone one of you who reads this to find it in your heart to give to Matt so he can stay in his apartment, buy food and pay his utilities. If all who read this can PLEASE skip ONE Starbucks coffee and instead donate those few dollars to Matt's survival fund, he will be helped more that you know. As I grow older I often think, sometimes it does take a village. Please let's do this and show that many people coming together with out much effort can make a difference. Thank you for taking the time to read this.