Help Ben Destroy Lymphoma

Let me tell you a little bit about my best friend, Ben Bucks. He is a nurse, a producer, a son, an uncle, and a friend. He was one of the  first people to help me feel more at home when I moved here to California. For the people that know him he’s a fun person to be around and a friendship you cherish. So what I’m about to share is hard for any friend or family to hear.

On June 3rd of this year Ben was on his way back to California from Indiana and was experiencing sharp abdominal pains on the plane. He went to the Emergency Room after landing and was diagnosed with Perforated Appendicitis. A month and a half later he had his Appendix removed. At this time it was sent to be reviewed by a pathologist. They discovered a rare form of cancer, known as Burkitt’s Lymphoma in the Appendix. An immediate consult with the Oncology department at UCLA was scheduled. After a PET scan, blood work, bone and marrow biopsy it was determined that the Lymphoma had been removed with the Appendix and it appeared to have been isolated. Long story short, the Cancer did not spread!! This is a huge win and blessing. Unfortunately, due to the prolific nature of this aggressive lymphoma, it was highly recommended by both UCLA and USC that Ben undergo Chemo for 3 months. Part of this will be inpatient requiring him to be hospitalized for several days at a time each month.

Due to this unfortunate situation he has been unable to work for the past 3 months and will remain off of work until the beginning of next year. I know many of our coworkers and myself have missed him at work. His humor always makes the nights at work go faster.

Our goal is to raise 20,000 dollars to help Ben with his medical costs and offset his financial burden during this time. He has been so positive during this difficult time. But the cost of healthcare and rent in California is high. To be able to lift the financial burden so he can focus on getting healthy again would be such a relief to him I’m sure. If you can donate please do! If you are unable, please share. Thank you so much!! 

Sincerely

Jessica