Help Rich Fight Multiple Myeloma

Rich Dresden was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma on February 29, 2012. The news came as quite a shock, since only three months prior his annual exam indicated he was in excellent health. Myeloma is a relatively rare blood cancer of plasma cells in the bone marrow. Although myeloma is incurable, treatment goals aim at slowing progression and providing temporary remission of the disease. After 16 months of aggressive but unsuccessful chemotherapy, Rich has been approved as a good candidate for stem cell transplantation. This treatment tends to give the best results in terms of slowing the disease and prolonging survival.

A stem cell transplant allows for treatment with high doses of drugs, destroying both myeloma cells and normal blood cells in the bone marrow. Healthy stem cells removed from the patient before high-dose chemotherapy are stored until they can be re-infused into the body. After chemotherapy, healthy stem cells are infused through a vein, like a blood transfusion. In time, the transplanted stem cells will begin to produce healthy blood cells, replacing the ones destroyed by treatment. This process requires a lengthy hospitalization of several weeks or months, followed with extended aftercare. Some people with myeloma require two or more transplants.

Rich (61) is a loving single father of three great children: Hunter, Taylor, and Hayden. He is also a much loved brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. Rich has always shown a passion for the great outdoors being an avid fisherman, hunter, big-game guide, and charter boat captain. Anyone who knows Rich appreciates his integrity, determined spirit, wealth of knowledge, quick wit, and incredible sense of humor. Despite his weekly chemo regimen, Rich continues working a demanding full-time job, maintaining his home, yard, and garden, and providing for the many needs of his family. Having been involved in various fundraisers for others in similar medically-induced financial crises, Rich realizes this fundraising opportunity may be one of his only hopes.

Please consider making a donation with confidence that all money received will be spent wisely on Rich's personal and medical expenses. He will be unable to work for quite some time post transplant, and will be at high risk for infections and other possible complications. As he continues to fight against this disease, the bills will keep rolling in for him and his family. There are many stressors that go along with a cancer diagnosis. If we can help ease some of the financial burdens resulting from this disease, Rich can keep his focus on what's most important. Getting well.

Thank you for your generosity and prayers for Rich and his family.

NOTE: If you would prefer to send a check, please make payable to Mary Korthase and mail to my address below:

2262 Fruitvale Road

Montague, MI 49437