Help Andrew, Loretta & Lily in the face of cancer

Three years ago, at the height of the pandemic, our dear friend Andrew was rushed to an emergency room. Andrew and his wife Loretta were stunned with his diagnosis: stage four colon cancer at the age of forty-one. Two weeks later, his daughter Lily was born.

We have known Andrew and Loretta for a long time. Together with Lily, they are a loving, special family. Andrew is one of the kindest and most giving people you could ever meet. He has always, always been there for all of us - he’s the friend that you can always trust will be in your corner. He is brave, witty, merry and wise; a beautiful writer; impressively good at moving furniture, and a wizard at word games. He’s a teacher and lifelong scholar, an amazing storyteller, and a genuine sweetheart. He is the best of us, and we can never hope to repay him - but hopefully you can see why we’re launching this appeal.

Since that day at the ER, Andrew has spent the last three years dealing with emergency surgeries, gruelling chemotherapy treatments and endless uncertainty about the future. Loretta has taken a leave from her job to be with him, and Andrew hasn’t been able to work for over two years. Despite all that, Loretta and Andrew have raised a wonderful little person. Lily is astonishingly bright and full of life, and very much loved.

Andrew’s and Loretta’s families are providing all the support they can, but things are increasingly tight. Living expenses for a young family with a growing toddler are very high. To say nothing of all the unavoidable costs that come with a protracted illness.

We have started this GoFundMe to support Loretta, Andrew and Lily as they navigate this incredibly difficult time with dignity and care. Please know that your contribution would not only help alleviate the significant financial strains on the family, but also provide Andrew and Loretta greater peace of mind as they look towards the future.

Every contribution makes a difference, and is profoundly appreciated. You would be giving a meaningful gift that will make their lives a little lighter, and make a little more room for joy and love. We would be very grateful too if you could share this campaign with your friends, family, and social networks to help spread the word.

Thank you so much for your support - it means a great deal.