Gary’s Road to Recovery

After going in for a routine colonoscopy in mid-June, Gary Pooch Jr. was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer.

Though it was the last thing they expected, Gary and his wife Cari were ready to make it through, putting all their energy and resources into his recovery.

In July, he underwent surgery in which the tumor was successfully removed. Staying positive, they were prepared for the worst yet still hoping for the best. They knew he would need time off work but were fortunate enough to have the financial preparations necessary to make it through the recovery from surgery and upcoming chemotherapy.

Gary seemed to be on a clear path to recovery until the morning of October 16, when he suffered a massive left MCA Ischemic stroke. He was airlifted to Toledo, where the blood clot was successfully removed. After his brain continued to swell, a craniotomy was also required.

Now with Gary out of work for an indefinite amount of time, Cari needing to take some time off to be by his bedside during the most crucial moments of his recovery, and funds already stretched thin from the initial surgery recovery and subsequent chemotherapy, they need your help.

Gary is stable now. However, he cannot speak or move his right side. He will be having a cranioplasty soon. We are asking for donations to help cover medical costs and other expenses while Gary prepares for a long recovery with rehab and physical therapy.

We understand times are tough for everyone right now, so any help is much appreciated. We are incredibly grateful for all types of support at this time, whether it be financial, emotional, or just sharing this GoFundMe.

If you prefer, we also have a Venmo account, or cash donations can be sent to Suzie Palmucci’s home address.

Feel free to contact Alyssa, Cassidy, and Suzie for more information if needed. We will update this post with milestones and other news during his recovery.

Thank you!