Help Weave a Support Net for Dick and Jim

PLEASE SEE UPDATES - MOST RECENT WAS POSTED 10/25/21
My name is Mary and I'm asking assistance for friends Dick F. and Jim P. Asking for support can be a really difficult thing to do, especially for those of us who take pride in being self-sufficient and independent. But sometimes, life can throw too many curve balls to catch or hit them all. Richard (or “Dr. Dick” as he is known to many of us) and his husband Jim are going through such times, and there just aren’t enough social safety nets in place to meet immediate and projected needs. You see, a bad fall on Thanksgiving a few years ago—a time meant for enjoying good food and company while giving thanks for blessings—started a period of extensive recovery for a broken hip. Such recovery is hard on anyone, but especially someone already undergoing dialysis. Caretaking for a person in convalescence also takes a compounding toll emotionally, physically, and financially. Dick and Jim got through these times accepting minimal assistance, but the broken hip set up for subsequent challenges.

 

Persistent pain in Jim’s foot this year led to discovery of inadequate blood flow and attempts to correct the flow without amputation were not successful. As of this writing on 9/8/21, Jim at age 72 has undergone 7 procedures since May 2021, including a partial foot amputation (and follow-up surgery) to relieve pain and remove tissue that was a threat to his body. The surgeon believes the blood flow is now greatly improved, but the surgeries have caused distress to Jim’s weakened heart. After a few days in ICU, he is being evaluated and all doctors recommend release to a rehab center for required care.

 

As you might imagine, all these surgeries have incurred expenses for gasoline, parking, incidentals, and food on top of whatever portion of the hospitalization will be owed. Dr. Dick, in his dry-humor style, posted this on August 31: “Much to my surprise, I was greeted at Emory with an award for financing single handedly over the past month the new parking deck addition. My contributions will be noted with a 4 X 4 inch, plastic plaque on the back side of one of the girders.” While funny, this is painfully real.

 

As a friend for several years observing the dogged determination Dick and Jim bring to life, I believe it’s a moment for their friends and possibly others who read this story to step forward and help ease this burden. With all the stress of coordinating doctors and care, Dr. Dick doesn’t need to be worrying about how parking is going to be paid for or how to fund car repairs on the power steering that is acting up. This really is a situation in which any amount helps. There’s no obligation, and there are no guarantees other than support WILL go directly to this couple who could sure use a little grace right now. If you can help, may the universe be kind to you when you are in need. If you cannot contribute but can share this information, please do so.

 

From my heart for these beloved friends,

Mary B.