Help Raymer Family with Medical & Funeral Expenses

My name is Jennifer (Austin) Hollingshead. I've known Ron and Christine Raymer for over 30 years. We went to and worked at Delta Lake Bible Conference Center for many years during our teenage and college years. We all went to Nyack College together as well.

Ron & Christine fell in love and were married in 1994 and have two boys, Ezekiel and Caleb. It has been a privilege to continue our friendship over the years and see their boys grow up. When my husband and I first started dating, he and Ron hit it right off. I jokingly say that Ron was my friend FIRST! :)

After dealing with some health issues for several years, Ron was diagnosed with Lupus in 2008. Heart attacks in 2017 led to a diagnosis of Wegener's granulomatosis, along with a lot of other things. As you can imagine, medical expenses began to increase....

In August of this year, Ron & Christine met with the heart surgeon in hopes of having a surgery that would improve Ron's heart function. Unfortunately, the doctor said that there was nothing more that could be done medically, due to the autoimmune disease and the fact that a large portion of his heart is dead.

From Christine: "He told Ron to enjoy the time he has left and do things that make him happy. He repeatedly told Ron over and over that this was going to kill him. He said that this will happen as quick as a light switch, painless but a merciful way to die. He also said that there is no time limit, but there is no more hope." As you can imagine, this was a difficult message to hear from the surgeon. At this point, they have called in hospice, and are taking one day at a time.

My husband, Steve, and I had the opportunity to visit with Ron and Christine in early October. It was a wonderful time to visit, recollect, and pray with them. It was also sad, knowing that this may be the last time we see Ron. However, as Christians we know that our hope is not in medical science, but in God, our Creator. We also know that God has numbered our days and He has Ron in His hands. We grieve because we will miss Ron here on this earth, but rejoice that we will see him again in Heaven.

During our recent visit, Christine shared with me that there are some financial struggles. As you can imagine, medical debt has been enormous, with all of the various health issues Ron has had. They have been good stewards of what God has provided, but their savings are at a minimum. When Ron was diagnosed with Lupus, he was no longer eligible for life insurance. So, once he passes, Christine will be left with very little.

We would like to bless this family and help to give Christine, as well as Ron, some peace of mind.

She told me that she knows God will provide, and I told her that sometimes, He provides through family and friends. :)

If you are so inclined and able to give, it will be greatly appreciated! If you cannot give financially, please pray for this family as they prepare to lose their husband and father.

Thank you, in advance, for any assistance you feel led to provide.