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James Bartnik Memorial Fund

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On November 6, 2017, we said our final good byes to my dear brother, James Bartnik, who had been battling stage 4 lung cancer since May 2016.  Jim was a 30-year survivor of malignant melanoma, and we were equally sure he’d beat cancer again and live many years to enjoy his young grandchildren.  We had a brief sense of victory last year at Christmas when Jim was declared cancer-free, but the joy was short lived – by April the disease had returned to both lungs. Despite aggressive treatments, it spread to his liver, adrenal glands, stomach, lymph nodes and brain within six months. 

During these last 18 months, the one constant in Jim’s life was Darlene Hertzog, his partner of 22 years and his soul mate.  Four months ago, Jim applied for programs to assist with expenses for in-home care, but his case never made it to the top of the waiting list.  So … Darlene did everything for Jim.  Darlene went to every doctor’s appointment and treatment with Jim, which increased in frequency and duration to the point she was no longer able to work.  Darlene provided all of the in-home care that enabled Jim to spend his final days surrounded by love.  Their daughter Maria moved back home to help Jim and Dar, and found out this week her hours at work had been cut to nearly zero. 

Now, Darlene is facing a mountain of bills as the holidays approach and the weather gets frigid.  I am asking for help in raising funds to ensure that Darlene can keep all of the utilities on through the winter and provide a little extra for Christmas gifts for the grandchildren. 

As I count my blessings this Thanksgiving, I am most grateful for the love and care Darlene gave my brother as he fought like a champion for his life.  While there are many challenging days ahead for Darlene, worrying about basic necessities like the gas and electric bill shouldn’t be one of them. Please join me in sharing your blessings with this family as the holidays approach.  If you can’t give at this time, would please consider spreading the word?

Many wishes for peace to all.
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Donations 

  • Jinnie Davis
    • $250 
    • 6 yrs
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Organizer

Dara Musgrave Yeh
Organizer
Monroeville, PA

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