Bruce Hydock Medical/Living Needs

Many of us will never forget September 11, 2001.  You will hear a story about the high schooler who was left with uncertainty of the future.  Other people will tell you how they missed their train and so they were running late that day.  Others may tell you how, while people were running away from the chaos to save their lives, they were running towards it.  They were running to help people.

Lieutenant Bruce Hydock was one of these people.  Not only has Lt. Hydock, Bruce, worked for the New York City Fire Department for over 20 years, however, he was a first responder on 9/11 and worked tirelessly to help those in need.  Like countless others, Bruce was exposed to environmental factors that have had lasting effects on his body.  Most recently Bruce was diagnosed with cancer which is attributed to the environmental toxins he was exposed to while saving lives on that fateful day.  

While the primary tumor has been removed, Bruce hasn't been able to return to work.  The future is currently uncertain.  His doctors wanted to do a redical lymphadenectomy and remove up to 50 lymph nodes.  As it is uncertain if the cancer has spread Bruce has opted not to be cut open, yet again.  Presently, Bruce's treatment plan is to return to the doctor every few months for scans and blood work.  If the lab results and scans show that the cancer has spread Bruce will have to undergo chemotherapy.  This in itself can be problematic becuase of Bruce's lung issues. As a result, they will have to use a less efficent form of chemo.

Prior to Bruce’s 9/11 related testicular cancer diagnosis he was diagnosed with: COPD, RADS, and sever apnea, hypopnea. As a result of these conditions he always has a rescue inhaler with him and has to take a daily dose of steroids. Bruce also sleeps with a CPAP machine each night to ensure he doesn’t stop breathing in his sleep.

While these medications/treatment plans help Bruce there are still daily reminders of his limitations. Bruce, who was once an avid scuba diver can no longer dive. He gets short of breath walking up a flight of stairs, and his lung issues prevent him for hiking or taking long bike rides; two activities he used to love to do. Additionally, walking at a quick pace is simply not an option.
  
While a victims fund was established, it does not provide money up front.  Additionally, the surgeon that Bruce had to go to does not participate in his insurance.  This has resulted in additional medical bills that Bruce can not cover.  

Bruce needs our help during this difficult time. He is receiving a disability check, however, it is only a fraction of his normal pay. As a result, it has been difficult for Bruce to make ends meet; his mortgage, utilities, groceries, etc. In this uncertain time we need to come together for Bruce and provide help and give support, just as he has helped and supported us.