Help for Mark Brugman
Donation protected
My brother Mark is very ill and while doctors are trying to get to the bottom of it, his health is declining rapidly. He's experienced severe and unintentional weight loss over the past year. He's had some seizures as well. And recently other symptoms such as extreme exhaustion, confusion, headaches and dizziness have taken away his ability to work. In fact, he's now having trouble even doing small tasks and it's difficult for him to concentrate for very long. Yes, he is seeing doctors.
Mark's bloodwork came back normal. A brain and neck MRI showed that he has a 9mm vertebral narrowing (suggesting stenosis), and a narrowing (partial collapse) of the artery in his neck (which could cause disorientation, dizziness, etc). A recent test showed he has a fat deposit on his liver. One of his legs has turned yellow and he's had an ultrasound on his legs but waiting to hear the results. The doctors will do a CT scan of his abdomen and liver and possibly a liver biopsy. He has an appointment with the cardiologist on September 6th for more artery CT scans of the upper-body. His next appointment with the neurologist is September 10th. At the time of these appointments he will learn more about the results of recent tests and what they mean.
At this point, it seems like there may be multiple issues and he hopes to have more answers with these upcoming appointments. Naturally, Mark is beyond frustrated not being able to get a precise diagnosis quickly and having to go through so many tests. Thankfully he has health insurance through the Oregon Health Plan so he can get the medical help he needs.
Unfortunately, he has been too sick to work for two months, and the doctor ordered him to not work, although he wants to, he simply can't - he's too weak now. And for those of you who know my brother, you know how hard on him this is! He's very upset and would really like his life back.
And alas, this is why I'm asking for financial help for him during this time. Mark and his long-time girlfriend share an apartment, but her income alone is not enough to cover all of their rent, car payment, bills and living expenses while he cannot work. They always relied on their two incomes together before his illness. She's working overtime and really trying to support them both. Mark did apply and receive food stamps for himself, and he has applied for Social Security Disability to help him while he is unable to work, but he's still waiting for approval. His phone will be shut off soon but he thinks he can get another one through a low-income government program.
My brother Mark doesn't WANT to have to ask for help. Any one of us who has been sick and can't work knows what a scary and helpless feeling this is. Unfortunately our mom passed away earlier this year, and our elderly dad is on a fixed income and is unable to help. My two other sisters and I just don't have the money to help him out as much as he needs, and he needs help immediately. I'm kindly asking for any and all help. Even a small amount, anything. It can help! Any support is appreciated. And I will post updates as we learn more and get a definite diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment plan.
Thank You,
Cheri (and Mark!)
Mark's bloodwork came back normal. A brain and neck MRI showed that he has a 9mm vertebral narrowing (suggesting stenosis), and a narrowing (partial collapse) of the artery in his neck (which could cause disorientation, dizziness, etc). A recent test showed he has a fat deposit on his liver. One of his legs has turned yellow and he's had an ultrasound on his legs but waiting to hear the results. The doctors will do a CT scan of his abdomen and liver and possibly a liver biopsy. He has an appointment with the cardiologist on September 6th for more artery CT scans of the upper-body. His next appointment with the neurologist is September 10th. At the time of these appointments he will learn more about the results of recent tests and what they mean.
At this point, it seems like there may be multiple issues and he hopes to have more answers with these upcoming appointments. Naturally, Mark is beyond frustrated not being able to get a precise diagnosis quickly and having to go through so many tests. Thankfully he has health insurance through the Oregon Health Plan so he can get the medical help he needs.
Unfortunately, he has been too sick to work for two months, and the doctor ordered him to not work, although he wants to, he simply can't - he's too weak now. And for those of you who know my brother, you know how hard on him this is! He's very upset and would really like his life back.
And alas, this is why I'm asking for financial help for him during this time. Mark and his long-time girlfriend share an apartment, but her income alone is not enough to cover all of their rent, car payment, bills and living expenses while he cannot work. They always relied on their two incomes together before his illness. She's working overtime and really trying to support them both. Mark did apply and receive food stamps for himself, and he has applied for Social Security Disability to help him while he is unable to work, but he's still waiting for approval. His phone will be shut off soon but he thinks he can get another one through a low-income government program.
My brother Mark doesn't WANT to have to ask for help. Any one of us who has been sick and can't work knows what a scary and helpless feeling this is. Unfortunately our mom passed away earlier this year, and our elderly dad is on a fixed income and is unable to help. My two other sisters and I just don't have the money to help him out as much as he needs, and he needs help immediately. I'm kindly asking for any and all help. Even a small amount, anything. It can help! Any support is appreciated. And I will post updates as we learn more and get a definite diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment plan.
Thank You,
Cheri (and Mark!)
Organizer and beneficiary
Cheri Brugman
Organizer
Cornelius, OR
Mark Brugman
Beneficiary
