Hi, my name is Gary Richter and I'm fundraising for my daughter Ashley, my son-in-law Justin and my six grand-kids.
6/11/24 It is with a very heavy heart that I am sharing the devastating news that my son-in-law, Justin, lost his battle with ALS on June 1st.
My daughter, Ashley has been a rock through this entire ordeal and continues to be a beacon of strength for their six children.
12/15/23 In July 2020 as my daughter’s family was preparing for a new addition to their blended family, a baby girl due that month, my son-in-law Justin Hust was diagnosed with ALS – more commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease - at the age of 40. Justin, an already devoted stepfather to four amazing children, was about to become a father when he was dealt this devastating diagnosis. Despite this horrible news the family was thankful for baby Abby’s arrival as she reminded us that we were still a family filled with love and life.
At the time of the diagnosis Justin was employed by the International Union of Operator Engineers 150 in tech support. Due to the rapid progression of the disease, within months he was unable to drive and ultimately let go of his position. The union did not offer adequate medical insurance or a pension. It was at this time the couple learned they would be expecting baby girl #2 - Emily.
Since Justin would be home as a “full- time dad” the couple hired various contractors and suppliers to make necessary modifications to the home and purchase equipment for Justin’s mobility needs.
● Contractor A received a deposit of $40,000; project is incomplete and left the home in a dangerous condition which caused Justin to injure himself
● Contractor B cost $98,000; project incomplete and there remains numerous plumbing issues
● The installation of an elevator - $38,000
● A van with wheelchair access - $21,000. Allowed Justin the ability to join the family for their extra-curricular activities
● A mobility trailer for the wheelchair was never delivered and their deposit of $5,000 was never refunded. The company is out of business
● Installation of a sidewalk and patio which enabled Justin to play with the kids in the backyard – $8,000
The couple exhausted their combined savings of over $200,000.00.
The financial impact of the money spent was also a loss of a safety net for home repairs, the canceling of small trips planned for Justin and the kids to experience together in the hopes of forming core memories and the loss of gifts Justin won’t be able to give to the kids for future celebrations and milestones to which he would not be present. The children range from 2- 15 years of age.
Despite the rapid progression of the disease, Justin and Ashley cherish the months they have remaining. The once independent Justin now depends on Ashley for nearly every aspect of his daily life such as eating, dressing, bathing and moving. The physical and emotional toll on Ashley is immeasurable yet she remains unwavering in her commitment to care for Justin and their six children. Ashley is a talented teacher, and even received her master’s degree during one of her pregnancies. She
is facing a difficult challenge ahead. Justin remains remarkably optimistic and finds the silver lining in being able to be at home with the children and watch them grow and flourish. He truly appreciates the small moments in life offering a heartwarming example of finding joy and purpose amid life’s trials.
The only assistance they receive from the State is 79.00/month from Snap (food stamps) and 50.00/month from WIC (Woman Infant and Children) for Abby and Emily.
As a father and grandfather, I want to do all I can to help my family during this mentally and financially overwhelming time in their lives – that is why I created this GoFundMe page. Our families are providing what they can to help with the monthly expenses however their ongoing needs are URGENT and your donation will truly make a real difference. Here are some specific ways your contributions will be used:
● The recovery of their lost savings
● Ongoing medical bills and expenses
● Additional modifications to the home for new flooring
● Educational and daily living expenses for their children
Your support, whether through a donation or by sharing this campaign, will provide them with hope, comfort and the financial assistance they so desperately need.
Thank you for your generosity and financial assistance from Ashley and her family (Derik 15, Michael 13, Evelyn 11, Veronica 8, Abby 3 and Emily 2)
Gary Richter
Here's some pictures of this lovely family
Organizer
Gary Richter
Organizer
Chicago, IL