Polly is married to my cousin Gary Clark and being he and I are only a few months apart in age, Gary is like a brother to me.  In time, Polly soon became not only like a sister, but one of my best friends. In late September, Polly began having some health issues and, after 3 trips to the ER in one weekend, was admitted and things quickly went from bad to worse.  For days she battled for her life and for weeks things continued to spiral out of control.  While remaining hospitalized, in November she was finally diagnosed with Stage 3 Sigmoid Colon Cancer. Finally something to fight.  Once Polly was somewhat stable, she was transferred to Clearlake for more treatment and therapy, unfortunately, another surgery was required. To this day, she remains hospitalized....3 months and counting. Gary has not left her side for any significant length of time and the kids are with them as much as work, school and raising kids allow.

If you know our family, you know that we were taught to work hard and play hard and Gary and Polly do just that!  Like all of the family, they take pride in what they've accomplished, the children they've raised and those precious grandchildren are their our reward.  It's that pride that makes it hard to help as they find it so difficult to accept any monetary gifts as it truly is easier to give than receive. But, we all need an outlet to help and outside of prayers, I would like us to help take away those worry of extra expenses. 

Both have had to retire early due to health issues.  The cost of staying in a hospital adds up with gas and food  and the bills don't just stop at home. The cancer treatment hasn't even begun so the future has a lot of uncertainty but obviously there will be more travel and hospital stays.  After prayerful discernment, I'm starting this page to give them a hand up, and not a hand out, as life brings us all some rough and rocky roads and we all need each other's help at times.  I was required to submit a dollar goal but I don't really have a goal as it is my belief that if God puts it in your heart to give, then they will get what they need. God's in control and we know that He always knows what is best.

I know things are tough after Christmas and that's okay if you can't give because our greatest gift to them is our love and prayers for healing, comfort and rest.

It also wouldn't hurt if you said a prayer that Gary will continue talking to me after this!!

Love to you all,
Hang in there Gary and Polly, we got your back as you would have ours!

Necie