Dwayne - Triple Hit Lymphoma

Before my Dad was diagnosed with cancer I really had no idea how complex the disease is or how life changing the treatments can be. The community of people that have offered support to my family has been overwhelming and comforting. However, this disease has caused a greater amount of need than we could have ever imagined. My parents have learned to lean on one another and their many friends, family members and co-workers for support-- this support now, unfortunately includes the need to raise funds for Dad's cancer treatment and expenses that accompany that. My Dad is working part time (about two weeks a month) because his treatment is so intensive. He has to do inpatient chemotherapy 5 days a week every 3 weeks and then after his week in the hospital it takes about a week or more to recover after the treatment. He also goes to the cancer center every Monday and Thursday (non treatment weeks) for lab work and if his numbers are low that trip can include getting fluids or a blood transfusion. His work family has been very generous with him and has made his work duties as limited as needed but still being at school taking care of students and his other duties make it sometimes difficult since he is always feeling the effects of the Chemo. He is doing as much as he can to work as often as he can since the unpaid leave through FMLA is only 12 weeks. He has to work as much as he can to be able to keep his insurance and employment status, keeping insurance is of the utmost importance as the cost of treatment would be completely devastating to my parents if they had to pay all of it out of pocket. Mom is still working full time but takes off to go to the doctor appointments when she can. My parents don't complain and they figure out a way to make things happen even in the most challenging of times. I am starting this fundraiser because I want them to know that no matter what, they are going to be okay. They are hesitant to accept monetary help from anyone on their own. I want to be able to offer the many wonderful people that have reached out to them and me during this very new and difficult time and give everyone the opportunity to help whether it is donating money or helping around their house, or helping my mom and dad in anyway possible. The journey is long but we are hopeful the future will be better and your thoughts, prayers, and donations can help make it easier for them. Every cent you feel led to give will help with medical expenses including the current and remaining treatments he has scheduled at UTMC- Knoxville and the future ones that will include a probable 8-12 week stay at Vanderbilt. Thank you for all the support that you have already given my parents in this trying time, and thank you for any future support you choose to give to my family. Please know that the appreciation that we have for every ounce of support is immeasurable.