Gary, known to friends as Wack, has been my close friend for over 15 years. In the last five years, our bond has grown even stronger as we’ve supported each other through life’s ups and downs. Gary has lived with diabetes for more than 35 years, managing it with oral medication until recently. His health took a turn when his A1C levels spiked to 15, and oral medications could no longer keep his diabetes under control. His endocrinologist switched him to injectable insulin, but at the same time, Gary faced a series of seven medical procedures to address severe blockages. These challenges caused him to lose over 20 pounds in just a few months, leaving him weak and unable to maintain his independent lifestyle.

Gary runs a small landscaping business, but his health struggles forced him to pause work while bills continued to pile up. As he recovers, he’s been unable to regulate his blood sugar consistently, and daily nausea has made it even harder for him to regain his strength. His team of specialists now recommends an insulin pump as the best solution to help him regain control of his diabetes. Unfortunately, even with insurance, the cost of the pump is out of reach for Gary, who is deaf and relies on a limited monthly income from Social Security.

Everyone in our community knows Wack for his generous spirit and willingness to help anyone in need. He loves being outdoors, fishing, and spending time on his boat—activities he hasn’t been able to enjoy lately. With your support, Gary can get the insulin pump he needs to restore his health, preserve his kidneys, and return to the fun-loving, even-natured person we all know. Your help will truly give him a fighting chance and save his life.