Hellloooo.. my name is Amanda Strom and I am setting this up for my father, Ralph "Pops" Strom. If you know me, you have most likely met my father at some point, and if not.. I'm sure you have at least heard me talk about him. My dad is an incredible human being. He is an 80 year old Vietnam vet who would give the shirt off his back if you were ever in need, as he feels it is the right thing to do. I am honored to call this man my father.

As surreal as this is to write, this is one of those times he is going to need your love and support. Back in Feb, he was diagnosed with cancer in his throat at the base of his tongue. He has been working closely with the VA and Smillow Cancer Center at Yale. The doctors have said that he has great odds to beat the cancer, however it is going to be very tough on his body.

We are currently 2 weeks into his treatment. (7 weeks.. 1 day chemo, 5 days radiation). All things considered he is doing okay, although the pain and fatigue are increasing as the days of treatment add up. Prior to treatment, he had all his teeth removed. Between that and his tumor, his speech is slurred and he is now on basically just a liquid diet and we are really trying to keep his weight stable. Some days he is good, some days.. not so much.. As we both know, things will get tougher as treatment continues. BUT make no mistake, Pops is a trooper and has a very positive attitude. As he says, "I am a badass mother fucker and this ain't gonna get me down"

However... we are asking for your help. We need your support. Emotionally, physically and financially. I'll be honest, we weren't exactly in the best financial position before this, but now to say we are struggling is an understatement. Pops was working, now obviously that income has been removed. I am taking time off from work to help out for his treatments, for which I will not be compensated for. We are also buying new foods, medical aids, comfort things, etc to help with his journey. We are beyond grateful that the VA is covering all the medical bills he would have encountered otherwise. But... bills. With less income, bills have become overwhelming with barely making it paycheck to paycheck.

We very humbly ask for your support.. whether it be by sharing/liking this gofundme, emotional support/advice, your presence when you're available and/or financially. Whatever you are able to offer, we accept..with the kindest of hearts. We love you.

Thank you,

Amanda, Ralph "Pops" Strom and Sansa ❤️❤️