This year at the young age of 64, our father David Stephens health started to deteriorate unexpectedly.  After months of struggling with the unknown , our mother rushed our father to ECMC on July 9th , when he was struggling to breathe.  After arriving, doctors rushed him to the ICU where he had an immediate tracheotomy. After countless scans, tests and an extended stay ( July 9th- September 5th) at ECMC our father was diagnosed with Stage IV+ Pharyngeal ( throat) Cancer.  After undergoing a 10 hour life threatening surgery, he had a complete Laryngectomy. Our father spent over two months in the hospital and his fight is FAR from over. He was sent home and is now under the care of our mother.

Our mother is one of the most amazing, courageous, generous ,  and caring  individuals anyone has ever met.  She has taken on the responsibility of being his full time nurse at home, all the while managing her own business during this pandemic.  She has remained the wonderful wife, mother and grandmother she has always been. Through all of this she has also remained strong! Our mother continues to be the rock our family needs. Not once has she complained, but we are all aware of the financial burden she is enduring from these continuing medical expenses. 

Our fathers fight is still far from  over. He will need to undergo several rounds of chemo as well as radiation. Our family realizes this is a hard time for everyone and we feel as though this pandemic has brought our community closer, and proven how supportive people can be during this time of need. It is not easy reaching out to family, friends and even strangers, however our family has fallen on difficult times. This has forced us to swallow our pride, and reach out to those who are willing to help in ANY way possible.

ANY donation helps, and is beyond appreciated. Donations will go directly towards past, present and future reoccurring medical expenses.Thank you for your kindness and generosity in this difficult time. 

We are beyond grateful for all the prayers and well wishes we have already received, and continue to receive. It has helped our family immensely to keep our hope alive !!