My name is Richard Wenger. I've spent most of my life helping others. I was a volunteer firefighter with the Hamilton Fire Company in Neptune, NJ. I've spent the last 30 years in the security and fire safety field. I've worked for three different properties in Atlantic City. Now, this is one of the hardest but also bravest things I've had to do, and that is ask for help. Due to numerous health issues, I've been out of work since May, 2024. As many of you know, I'm a big guy. My weight is keeping me from fixing my other health issues. I suffered from severe arthritis in both my knees and my neck. Both knees are in need of replacement. That can't be done until I lose about 180 lbs. I've wanted weight loss surgery for several years but couldn't afford the time off of work to do it. I've spent the last 3 months having numerous tests done by all my specialists to be cleared for surgery. I have just been cleared for surgery that will hopefully be scheduled in the coming weeks. I've had no income since November. I've applied for social security disability and SSI to help get me by. It may be a few more months before that might happen. My two wonderful kids, William and Megan, have been paying all my bills since. They are now only able to cover half. I don't want to waste all of my hard work scheduling tests and going to many doctor visits by having to cancel this surgery. The surgeon said that it will not only be life changing but also life saving. I also suffer from severe sleep apnea, blood pressure issues, mental health and anxiety issues as well as dizziness and balance issues that the doctors have yet to figure out. All these issues can be helped by this surgery. I will also need certain foods, and protein shakes for several weeks before and after surgery. I will also need to take special bariatric supplements for the rest of my life. All these things are expensive and not covered by insurance. I will also not have enough money to keep my car, which I need to get to appointments and therapy. It is also my daughter's way of getting to work. I've applied for many assistance programs, but I'm still waiting for that help. I really need to get by for the next few months until I get my SSI money that my lawyer is working on. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Whether you can help or not, please help by sharing this. Me and my kids would be so grateful. When I'm back on my feet and doing better, I will return the favor in any way that I can. Thank you!