Boitnott Strong
If you were given 2-3 months to live, how would you spend it? We’ve all pondered this morbid question even though few of us will actually experience this scenario. But we’ve done it. We’ve taken in consideration things like, are we sick or elderly during this time? Do we have the financial means to do whatever we wanted or are we limited? Whatever the limitations might be, It’s safe to say that most of us would include on our list that we would want to spend our last days with the people that we love and enjoy them as much as we possibly can. After all, ultimately, that is what human life is all about. It’s the relationships we experience during our existence on this earth.
Earl and Gina Boitnott are the kind of people that define selflessness. Earl will give you the shirt off his back and do whatever it takes so others enjoy themselves always putting himself last. Gina defines loyalty in every way imaginable whether it is taking care of family or being there for friends. Family and friends are everything to them. They are amazing parents to JC and Chris and doting grandparents to Laci, Saige and have a soon-to-be born grandson to add to the love. The lives of those they touch are certainly a bit richer because of them.
On the afternoon of October 2, 2019, Gina took Earl to the ER for migraines and behavior that was a bit out of character for him. If you know Earl, he is a character all to himself, but this was something much different.
Imaging revealed he had a mass in his brain and emergency surgery was scheduled for October 4th. After several hours of surgery, surgery was halted due to inconclusive pathology results.
With Gina and “framily” by his side, the pathology waiting game began. Earl and Gina always say they don’t have any friends because those that know them become family, hence Gina’s term “framily”.
October 9th, lives changed forever when results revealed Earl has an inoperable GBM, Glioblastoma Multiforme, a fatal, fast growing, invasive tumor. With no cure, the estimate is approximately 2-3 months of life. At age 45, he has accepted a fate that no one this young should have to. He has declined treatment that would hinder him being the Earl we all know, and he is determined to enjoy his last days doing what he loves with the people he loves.
The money raised will go directly to the family to help cover the costs of medical bills, travel to see family and whatever else they need to do to make the most of life. With Earl no longer working and Gina on leave from work, the money will also provide a safety net for the family to not worry about living expenses during this time.
Anyone wishing to donate directly via check, can send donations to the following:
Made payable to Gina Boitnott with “Earl Boitnott Benefit” written in the memo.
Sent to:
Bloomington Municipal Credit Union (BMCU)
602 S. Gridley Street
Bloomington, IL 61701
