Hey, there. My name is Brandon, and chances are you know my dad, "The Legend - Billy G (a.k.a. William "Billy" Gilbert). Recently, my dad has had some medical issues related to his liver. Initially, his doctor in WV thought he had a type of liver cancer. However, after his first trip to the University of Kentucky Hospital in Lexington, the doctors determined that his issues are due to other serious conditions: the beginning stages of cirrhosis and a tumor in his liver constricting the blow flow within an artery that leads to his heart.

These problems are continuing to contribute to a decline in his liver's functionality. Due to these complications, it's expected his MELD score (Model for End-Stage Liver Disease) will continue to rise, and he will need a liver transplant.

While our family is confident in the University of Kentucky's ability to help my dad through this trying time, the expenses related to traveling to KY are daunting. As of now, dad will need to travel again to Lexington for three more appointments in August (08/05, 08/06, and 08/23) to determine the next steps in his liver treatment.

On top of upcoming appointments in KY, dad still has additional appointments in Charleston with his primary physician. It all adds up quickly, especially when you consider the unexpected costs that always pop up, especially when you're putting wear and tear in a vehicle.

If you do know my dad, I'm sure he's touched your life in some way, whether he's made you laugh, been there when you need a friend, or even helped you out when you've been down on your luck. But, if you don't know my dad, let me tell you, you're missing out; he'd probably go out of his way to help you if you needed it.

I'm asking you to chip in what you can, even if it's only a dollar or two. Dad has been stressed out about having to afford hotel, gas, food, and all the other expenses that come with being on the road for days at a time. Of course, extra stress is the last thing he needs, and it only compounds the physical pain he is going through. Aside from these next rounds of appointments in August, it's all but guaranteed, he will need to make additional trips to KY in the near future.

Please do whatever you can, send positive vibes to him, give him a call, or send him a text to keep his spirit up. Thanks for anything you can do.

-Brandon