Helping Josh Burdick - Stage 4 Prostate Cancer

My name is Susan, and I am raising money for Josh Burdick. Josh and I have not shared too much with many people, as we are typically relatively private people. We tend to deal with any life issues on our own, as we do not want to be a bother to anyone else. We know there are struggles out there with everyone, no matter how big or small. With that being said, we have come to a fork in the road, where we no longer have a choice but to ask for the help from our family, friends and community.

Late last summer (2021), Josh was having abnormal pain in his hip. We went to the doctor, and they didn't find anything wrong. They referred us to an orthopaedic physician when Josh's pain was increasing. After a few visits with them and a couple different treatments (that failed), he was written an order for an MRI on his back and hip. A few hours after the MRI was completed, we received a phone call from the physician, who informed Josh had a metastatic disease.

By November 15, 2021, we were dealing with Stage 4 prostate cancer. Josh had a tumor on his spine, which had spread to his bones. The doctors started aggressive treatments, which seemed to be helping because the numbers in his blood tests were decreasing. The oncologist was hoping to stretch that treatment out for at least three years, but the "C" word had other plans. In March 2022, Josh's numbers started to increase again. At that time, the physician decided the best plan of action was to start Josh on a clincal trial of medications and treatments, and that is where we are currently.

Josh holds a full-time job, working in the grocery department at a local grocery store, but due to the pain, he is currently struggling to work the minimum 30 hours just to maintain his health insurance. Obviously, the health insurance is something he desperately needs at this time! The pain medications the physician had him on were not helping at all, so that physician decided to refer Josh to pallative care. On Tuesday, September 13, 2022, we had our first visit with the pallative care physician. That doctor has started Josh on a different pain medication that can hopefully allow Josh some kind of relief.

Josh utilized FMLA and short-term disability in late 2021, so he has to wait until November of 2022 to even be eligible to utilize it again. At this time, we don't know what the future holds, as the cancer is attacking his bones quite aggressively. Due to Josh's pain level, it is becoming increasingly more difficult by the day for him to continue to work.

At this point, we have to put our pride aside and ask for help from his family, friends and community, as the medical expenses are starting to become a bit overwhelming. I continue to work a full-time job, but I am also his only transportation to treatments and doctor appointments. I am working to provide all the necessities of life (food, clothing & shelter), and I know my income alone will not cover his medical expenses.

It is hard for him or myself to ask for help, but I do not have a choice at this point. I know things are hard for everyone right now, but if you are able to assist in any way, it would be greatly appreciated. If you are unable to donate, prayers are always appreciated and carry us through the most difficult times. Thank you for being a part of our lives, and we are gracious to have such caring people surrounding us during this difficult and scary time.

God bless,

Susan