I want to preface this with the fact that it's very difficult to reach out this way. It's not our way, or how our family would normally handle a difficult situation. But this crisis cannot be managed at this time otherwise.

My son, Paul Ferrara, was just diagnosed with throat cancer. Many of you know Paul, but for those of you who don't...

He's 47 years old, he's a wonderful father to 5 fabulous children, and is soon to be a grandfather for the first time.

The crisis to this financial situation is that Paul is without health insurance .. The costs for treatment will be major. I know this in advance because my brother John had throat cancer 4 years ago (and remains cancer free).

If there's anything that you're able to contribute to help with his cancer treatment expenses, I know how grateful he would be, as would I. Which is why I'm writing this, I know that he wouldn't.

And if you can't, please keep Paul in your thoughts and prayers over the next few months.