Meet Anthony Rice, a father of four children, and a man who has worn many hats — former basketball athlete, Harlem Globe Trotter, art teacher, coach, basketball trainer , and AT&T wire technician. For years, he lived a vibrant and active life, committed to his family, his community, and his health. But two years ago, everything changed.

What began as a routine visit to the doctor for leg pain — pain he believed came from years of standing on the job — turned into the start of a devastating health journey. Initially misdiagnosed with bilateral pneumonia at an urgent care clinic, Anthony's condition quickly deteriorated. He returned to the emergency room experiencing severe shortness of breath and chest pain. That’s when doctors discovered significant lung scarring and pericarditis, a painful inflammation of the tissue surrounding his heart.

Even more concerning, these symptoms were linked to an undiagnosed autoimmune disease. Anthony was sent home on oxygen and multiple medications, overwhelmed and unsure of what would come next.

Despite trying to remain strong for his family, Anthony’s health declined rapidly. On June 13, 2023, his oxygen levels dropped dangerously low, and his heart rate became unstable. He was rushed to Piedmont Fayette Hospital, where he was quickly admitted to the ICU, placed on life support, and intubated. He remained hospitalized for over a month, fighting for his life. By the grace of God, he survived.

Prior to this, Anthony had never been hospitalized, never had surgery, and had never experienced serious illness. This sudden and life-altering turn has been mentally, physically, and financially devastating. He has since been diagnosed with Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) — a progressive, incurable condition that causes permanent scarring of the lungs, making it extremely difficult to breathe or exert physical energy. As a result, Anthony now requires 18hrs of oxygen support, and even minor activity causes his oxygen levels to drop and his heart rate to spike.

Today, Anthony is unable to work. His doctor has officially declared him medically unfit for employment. Without a steady income, he is now temporarily living at his mother home, with no permanent residence or transportation. Despite the love and effort he pours into his role as a father, the weight of mounting medical bills, home expenses, and basic needs has become unbearable.

Anthony’s family is reaching out in hopes of receiving support during this critical time. Funds raised will go toward:

Any amount — no matter how small — will make a life-changing difference for Anthony and his family. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this story can go just as far in helping them get the support they so urgently need.

Thank you for reading, for caring, and for helping a good man breathe easier as he faces the hardest battle of his life.

With gratitude,

The Rice Family