My dear friends.

I was diagnosed with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) in 2022. But, I continued living, exploring, and celebrating life in my usual artistic, flamboyant, paddle-boarding, bicycling way. It really was okay. As I told those “in the know:” “I have a disease, but I’m not sick.” I had successful Melanoma surgery in 2022. Secondary skin cancers are common with CLL. Who knew?

Welcome to 2025, the Year of the Snake. I’ll be shedding some skin. I was recently diagnosed with a rare, very aggressive form of skin cancer called Merkel Cell Carcinoma.

Thankfully, I have Medicare. But, cancer isn’t cheap. My copays for Immunotherapy Infusions are currently totaling in excess of $3600. My lymph biopsy yesterday alone was $190. PET/CT scan = $90. I still have surgery and then radiation treatments to look forward to. Then, who knows?

Asking for help isn’t easy. But here we go. I need help. Saying “I can’t do this alone” isn’t in my vocabulary, until now.

I need help, I can’t do this alone. The stress of having cancer is enough. I’m doing what I can to fight this horrible disease. I have my beloved John holding me up. I have our beloved dogs sleeping beside me. I have an amazing posse of doctors: my oncologist, dermatologist, family practice doc, my surgeon, they’re all amazing. But, the financial stress weighs heavily. So dear friends, I’m turning to you. Any contribution will be greatly appreciated. I need help, I can’t do this alone.

Love to you all,

Brian