Help Inga Be With Dimitry When He Needs Her

Inga Leonova is simply one of the most generous people I know. And now she needs are help. Here's why:

Since 2009, Inga's brother Dimitry has lived in Vienna. Dimitry was trained as a classical clarinet player. He is disabled, but despite his disability, he works part-time at a coffee shop, sings in a choir, and still occasionally plays his clarinet. Recently, Dimitry learned that he needs bypass surgery, a complete shock to everyone. Unfortunately, while he was being prepared for surgery, the doctors discovered that he is positive for tuberculosis and that the surgery would have to be delayed. As soon as it is clear that the TB is responding to the treatment, he will have his operation. This, of course, creates some uncertainty as to when the surgery will be.

His family (Inga and their parents) live over 4,000 miles away in Boston, MA. They desperately want to be with Dimitry when he has surgery, as well as to help him during his recovery. Because of his disability, he does not have much of a support circle in Vienna. However, being in Vienna during Dimitry’s recovery is going to be a significant expense, an expense compounded by the uncertainty surrounding when precisely the operation will be.

Everyone in their family has worked hard since leaving the Soviet Union over thirty years ago. And while we have been able to build comfortable lives, none of them have the resources to ensure that they can support Dimitry during this difficult and unpredictable time in one of the most expensive cities in Europe.

That is why we are asking you for help. They expect that staying in Vienna during Dimitry's surgery and recovery will cost approximately $6,000 just for accommodations. We cannot yet estimate travel and possible lost wages. No matter what happens, they will make sure they can be there, but if you are able to offer any help we know that they would be forever grateful.