Hello friends, family, and community. Anyone who knows Kris Howes, knows how much he has given back to not only our local community but surrounding areas as well. He is typically the one hosting fundraisers for those in need, however, sometimes those same people need help themselves and this is one of those times.

In mid January Kris went to urgent care for swelling in his throat and what we suspected was strep throat. This quickly turned into multiple different hospital/medical facility visits for testing. Unfortunately, results came back positive for papillary thyroid cancer. Surgery to remove all or half of the thyroid and all attached cancer/masses is set for Friday, March 13th. What simply started as a routine visit to urgent care about 5 weeks ago has unfortunately changed and halted the course of his life right now.

As many know, Kris is a self employed business owner who is uninsured. In the past month alone he has had to go to 7 different medical facilities for testing and appointments and $45K in medical bills have already started accumulating. Through all of this Kris has been struggling with his health and has been having to take major time off of work due to the toll this has taken on his body, most specifically hand tremors which prevents him from tattooing. Anyone who knows him, knows he is a work-a-holic so this has been a VERY difficult journey for him. He will also be out of work for a bit after surgery.

The people who already know have been asking “What can we do to help, where can we donate?”. So here we are, creating a GoFundMe for those who have asked near and far to help with the costs of medical bills, co-pays, traveling costs and living while he out of work. There are also other ways you can help alleviate financial burdens besides donating to the GoFundMe. Book tattoos with the other artists at Ink Maine or purchase merch or gift certificates from the shop which helps bring funds into the shop and keep those bills paid while he is out on leave. Many keep asking about cooking meals or dropping off food, and while that is appreciated, he is having difficulty eating, issues with his appetite, and does have many allergies to foods so we ask that you refrain from doing this, however, gift cards to Hannaford or Wal*Mart can be helpful. It is also just as helpful to share the go fund me even if you can’t donate! If you would like to donate in a different method please contact us or swing by the shop at 432 Hancock St Rumford, ME. We have a collections jar and other methods for those who don't use GoFundMe. We appreciate everyone and the support he has already been shown. Let’s help the man who helps so many others!