My name is Phil Hall and I have been struggling with medical issues since last spring. The big toe on my right foot became infected (see picture). When I went to the ER on June 9, I was told that I had osteomyelitis, an infection of the bone.

My last day of teaching was 6/12/2025, at which time I made the decision to retire from teaching and take care of my wife who suffers from chronic illness and uses a wheelchair.

In July, I collapsed (passed out from blood loss in a GI bleed) and spent several days in the hospital. I needed 6 units of blood before I was released.

At the end of the summer, I thought that I was healed, but both the osteomyelitis and the ulcer returned. My doctor thinks that it is stress-related. I need surgery on my big toe before the infection spreads to my foot and I also need surgery for the ulcer.

I don't have medical insurance other than Medicare since I stopped teaching, and I haven't received my PERS retirement yet. I am the sole caregiver for my sick wife, Jade, who can't even walk anymore.

I really feel uncomfortable having to do this, but I need some serious help and I don't know what else to do.