Hello, my name is Doug Popplewell. I am speaking on behalf of the friends of Ed and Patty Gowland. Ed has been a hard-working plumber in DelCo for the last 40 years, and Patty has been in the Veterinary field at many places, most recently Springfield Animal Hospital and VRC in Frazier.

Ed has had 2 open heart surgeries to replace his aortic valve (twice). Unfortunately, after his most recent replacement, he was diagnosed with colon cancer. He continued to work despite being tired and nauseous as a plumber during his chemo and radiation treatments. After several tough months, he achieved remission and things looked good.

Three weeks ago, they were hit with a bombshell. Ed had to be admitted to the hospital with a blood infection, likely originating from his GI tract due to effects of cancer treatment and follow-up surveillance.

Things got complicated fast. The prosthetic heart valve and his permanent pacemaker were infected. The pacemaker was replaced with a temporary one and he needs to complete several weeks of antibiotics. Ed will then face 2 more surgeries. One to change the pacemaker back to a permanent one and a second to replace the damaged valve. Ed has had numerous appointments with specialists including cardiac, oncology, and GI.

Due to the prolonged treatment plan and disability, Ed hasn’t been able to return to his work as a plumber. He was already dealing with significant medical bills from his cancer treatment, and now medical bills from this illness are piling up.

Ed and his wife Patty are devastated not only by the stress of his illness and future surgeries but from the sudden loss of income. It was at that point a group of Ed’s friends realized we need help from the community.

Please consider donating to Ed and Patty. We are hoping to raise $50,000. The funds will be used to pay for the mounting medical expenses and to address their normal household bills as they struggle on the reduced income. We are all praying and wishing for his recovery.

Thank you for donating!

You’re making a huge difference in the lives of Ed and Patty. They are truly amazing and caring people.