It’s hard to write this and to have to ask for help. My parents have never been the kind of people to ask for help or assistance, but rather the ones to show up when help is needed. I'm sure that I will get an earful when they find out about this, but they are in true need.

My dad, at the age of 57, has been diagnosed with heart failure. He started having heart and chest issues in December of 2024, and by January was told his heart was only pumping at 30%. The doctors did several tests and multiple medications to see if they could improve or reverse his condition. He has had to wear a life vest 24/7, so if his heart stops it will shock him. In April of 2025, he had a heart cath procedure and was told he does not qualify for stents due to the multiple blockages; he needs open-heart surgery and bypass. Late -April, he was informed after several more tests that they are unable to do his surgery locally and he needs to go to a bigger hospital about two hours away have it done. He was also told his heart was only pumping at 20%, so even with the multiple medications he had been on, he is getting worse.

This has been extremely hard for our family, but my parents particularly. They have always worked hard for what they have and still they just seem to make it. My dad has been off work since January, and will be off for many more months. My mom, who has worked at a school for 20+ years as an aide/librarian, is soon to be without a paycheck because of summer vacation. They could really use some support for all the medical and personal bills that are already piling up.

Thank you all so much.

Even if you cannot donate, please feel free to share and spread the word. We could also use all the prayers and good thoughts.

**9 month post surgery update**

My Dad has had many ups and downs over the past year, recovering has been the same. His surgery did improve his heart function some. He was at 20% heart function and is currently at 40%. While this is good news he has improved some, this is still low and he is still in heart failure. His doctors do not believe he will improve any further. He has been off of work since December of 2024, and for the past 8 month my parents have had to pay over $1,500 a month for Cobra insurance. My mom is the only one bringing in income, this along with the everything else has been extremely difficult for her to carry. She is still employed at wonderful school that she has been at for 20+ years, however they don’t offer her insurance, cobra benefits are soon to be expiring and summer vacation is approaching. We are blessed and grateful for everyone who has donated and supported us through this journey. We wouldn’t have made it this far without you. We are beyond blessed for our community, family and friends. If you are so kind to continue to contribute, share, and pray we could use it. Thank you all so very much!