Helping Scott Balch with funeral and living expenses.

Hi, my name is Lori, and I'm raising funds for our good family friend, Scott Balch. We are on the west coast now, but wanted to try to help in any way possible long distance. My husband, Robert, and I knew his parents, Barry and Marie, for many decades and Robert was best friends with Scott's brother, Dave, since middle school. Dave was supposed to be the best man in our wedding but ended up in the hospital that weekend. (Sadly, Dave passed from cancer one year later, in 1990.) Through all of the years, however, we continued to remain in touch with the Balch family and just saw them again in the fall of 2023 when we visited Rochester.

Now, Scott needs our help. Only 8 months ago his mother passed away due to a heart attack. She was the rock of the family- the cook, the bread winner, the bill payer, and the glue that held everything together. When she and Barry came to my father's memorial in September of 2023, she gave the best hug and smile. She was always so positive and encouraging.

Then only days ago, Scott lost his father, Barry, to pneumonia and other complications. He is not only devastated, but is also facing mounting medical bills estimated to be at least $10,000 not covered by insurance. His funeral costs for his father will range between $2500 and $10,000 depending on whether they choose cremation or burial.

**Barry was a veteran but did not file for VA benefits, so Scott is trying frantically to get the benefits which will pay for the funeral, but at this point he will need to pay upfront and then (hopefully, if he can get the necessary paperwork) get reimbursed. The VA has been unable to find the records for Barry at this point. Even with the reimbursement, Scott is still facing financial stress as he continues to look for new employment at the same time.

I cannot imagine losing my only sibling decades ago, then both of my parents within less than a year, not having the emotional support, dealing with overwhelming grief, and then being worried about finances on top of all of that.

Any small amount you can donate will be GREATLY appreciated! If you are unable, they also welcome your prayers at this devastating time.

Thank you,

On behalf of Scott Balch and Karen Balch