Many of us know Artie for his witty sense of humor and his ability to make the world smile. He is a loving husband to his wife Aimee, a dad to their beautiful, blended family and a proud grandpa. Others know him as the Chaplin, ex-chief and over 33-year member of the Hampton Bays Volunteer Fire Company, the vice president of the Southampton Gun club or the Vestry Senior Warden at St. Mary's Episcopal Church. No matter how you are connected, we all know the joy he has brought to a room.

In December, Artie began to experience some forgetfulness and confusion but there was no explanation. After months of doctors and testing, a rare and fatal diagnosis was determined, it was Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD). It is a neurodegenerative disorder that is rapidly progressive and always fatal. Infection with this disease leads to death usually within 1 year of onset of illness.

Artie's condition has taken over and he is now bedridden and often no longer verbal. This is a cruel and unforgiving condition, but Aimee is working hard to care for him as he has cared for others his entire life.

Aimee and his whole family are so appreciative of all the support they have and continue to receive. Many have approached her offering their support but there has not been a path in place for them to donate easily to help relieve a touch of the financial stress that is upon them since both had to stop working over six months ago.

We know even though the paychecks have stopped, the bills and everyday life of children in college and daily expenses are nonstop. For those that would like and are able, here is our chance to provide an amazing man and family just a touch of relief during this difficult and painful time. CJD is brutal and unkind, let see how we can support a man who has been an amazing part of our long-time community.

All our love and support to Artie and his entire family.