"F cancer"- Brent Schlappy

It is with a heavy, but hopeful heart that I create this fundraiser in hopes of reducing the significant financial burden experienced by my humble parents, Brent and Judy Schlappy.

Always a hard worker and a determined provider, Brent has been limited over the last 18 months due to several surgeries: 2 on his ankle, and one on his knee. He’s worked at Ace Hardware as much as he could during the times he was cleared to do so by his doctor, but unfortunately, he is now unable to return. On February 28, Brent was officially diagnosed with prostate cancer. It is scary news and an incredibly helpless feeling for all of us. Last week a sample of the biopsied tissue was sent off for DNA analysis. Unfortunately, it indicates that the cancer is Metastatic, and of an aggressive type. On March 14, a PET scan will help us understand if the cancer has metastasized to other parts of his body, and an appointment is set for March 28 to review all the test results and potential treatment plans. At only 67 years old, Brent is determined to fight the cancer any way he can, drawing inspiration from his son, Brian, who passed in 2004 after a long fight with Cystic Fibrosis.

The expenses associated with treatment are high. My parents both have Social Security and Medicare, however with the new deductible roll over, and, let’s face it, subpar coverage and payouts, these benefits are far from totalistic. On top of this, without additional income, “life” expenses, such as groceries, gas, and utilities, are overwhelming. Their funds have been exhausted over the last year and a half, and they must move out of their home by April 19.

It is difficult, near impossible, it is to find the right words, good enough words, to describe the role my parents have played in so many people’s lives. ANY help is deeply appreciated. Money donated will support living expenses, medications, appointments (especially additional therapies) throughout treatment, and assist with extensive home care.

As a side note, Ace Hardware, in the Tremper’s Shopping Center on Brooks Street, is giving away a Blackstone Grill as a fund raiser for Brent. Tickets are $5 each and will be available through the end of April. They are also doing a “round up”, where shoppers can opt to round up to the next dollar on their totals, the balance going into a fund for Brent, who will receive 100% of the proceeds from both events

My family and I thank you so much for taking the time to read this, and we appreciate you sharing this link with friends and family. Check back often for updates, especially at the end of the March.