Some of you may or may not know that our stepdad, Tom, has been in the hospital for the past month and a half battling for his life. He was diagnosed with the lung disease COPD years ago. So, when he became really sick in May his breathing was affected until it was so bad that he had no choice but to be hospitalized. There we discovered that he had a pulmonary embolism that most likely was building up for quite some time without Tom realizing it. They also found out he had a bad case of pneumonia on top of it. After two weeks, it started to seem like he was getting better, so he was sent home, but unfortunately ended up back in the hospital a few days later, and has been there ever since. Unfortunately, since then, they found more pneumonia, staph, strep, and another bacterial infection, leading to the collapse of one of his lungs.

 

His lungs are in extremely bad shape, and they have been taking every measure possible to try to save him up until this point. He has been transferred to another hospital where they performed a procedure to hopefully help provide some relief for him as it has been extremely difficult for him to breathe with the condition of his lungs. Obviously, we are hoping for the best outcome possible with this, but either way he has a long road ahead of him while the medical bills continue to pile up.

 

Prior to Tom getting sick he was working full time to help support our mom, Diane, who was forced out of work a few years ago due to an injury, and himself. Our mom picks up side jobs to help, but can only do so much due to her injury. Now, with Tom being out of work, unable to ever go back, and the medical bills piling up, having enough money to cover it all is obviously going to continue to be difficult. If you know Tom, you know he is more worried about his wife, the bills getting taken care of, and everything/everyone other than himself. When you speak to him, the only thing he wants to know is that everyone who he loves is okay.

 

Tom has always been the type of person who gave to everyone else before himself. He'd take the shirt right off of his back to give to someone in need and has the heart of gold. He and our mom have given and helped so many countless others over the years and they would never in a million years ask for help from anyone, which is why we decided to do it for them (even though I can already hear Tom asking why in the world we would do such a thing). He's always been more focused on providing for everyone else that not being able to do so is the biggest cloud he feels hanging over him.

 

Any money donated will be used for any bills and expenses they need covered while Tom is in the hospital and after. Every little bit, no matter how small, is greatly appreciated. Our intent is that this helps Tom feel more at ease about his situation, and not worry about how things will be paid as well as to make sure our mom has everything she needs. Our family appreciates any love and support you may be able to give at this point.

Even if you are unable to contribute, we appreciate your love, prayers, & thoughts sent his & our mom's way.

- Leann & Angie