Help the Demers Family

I met my friend, Everett, in 2015 on a baseball field with our sons playing on the same team. Everett is a big part of God’s plan. Everett connects with so many on several different levels. He values family and friends to the next level and has a strong faith. It was easy to become friends with Everett, he made it that way.

Everyone I talk to knows Everett somehow, some way. When I say volunteering, that is an understatement. If you have ever been involved in sports in or around Coventry, CT, you know that Everett has spent countless hours volunteering his time in baseball, football, and softball amongst other efforts. This man found a way to work full time, be a dad to many, a husband, a grandpa, a friend, a coach, an announcer, a cheerleader, a spectator, a concession man, …, you name it, I’m sure Everett wore that “hat”.

There were times my friend struggled with this load. Whether it be blended family dynamics, job stress, too many volunteer hours, loss of loved ones, or seemingly not enough hours in the day, sometimes, my friend would confide in me. The load becomes less when two carry it together. I’m not sure how many are aware that Everett has limits, mainly because he refuses to admit them.

Everett has recently received some tragic news concerning his health. He is currently unable to carry the load he has done for so very long. Everett was diagnosed with Type II Diabetes quite a few years back and, as many know, it can be debilitating. Everett has struggled with neuropathy, Charcot's foot, is living on dialysis, and recently had a lifesaving cardiac quadruple bypass. Most recently Everett struggled with arm pain that led to bypass surgery in his arm. While recovering at home, his wife, Julie, noticed sores on his foot. Everett was admitted to the hospital and subsequently had a bypass on his leg followed by amputation of his toes. This is surely the ugliest side of Diabetes.

Everett is currently healing from his leg bypass as well as the amputation of his toes. He is battling two infections that require intravenous antibiotics. He will face rehab and months of healing leaving him unable to work.

Now is the time that we can show our appreciation for people like Everett. I am asking on behalf of my friend, although he is now more my brother. Please consider donating, whatever amount you feel comfortable with, to Everett and more importantly his family. His pride would not allow him ever to ask, nor would he want his family to ask.