For the past 14 years, Tom has worked at the NLEMMC as a patient transporter, helping bring patients to procedures, tests, and even simply to the front door when they’re ready to go home. During some of the most stressful and vulnerable moments in people’s lives, Tom has always tried to make patients feel calm, comfortable, and cared for. To him, coworkers become family, and anyone who knows Tom knows exactly what kind of person he is: hardworking, genuine, compassionate, and always trying to put others at ease.
About 8 years ago, Tom was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
Most people only notice the tremors, but Parkinson’s affects nearly every part of daily life. The sleepless nights, constant exhaustion, anxiety, stiffness, and loss of independence are battles most people never see. Even simple things like grocery shopping have become something he has to carefully plan around. If he pushes himself too much or stays on his feet too long, he starts limping throughout the store — something that can feel frustrating and embarrassing for someone who has always been active and independent.
Despite all of this, Tom continues showing up for others every day.
Now he has the opportunity to undergo a focused ultrasound procedure that could significantly improve his quality of life. While this is not a cure for Parkinson’s, doctors believe it could help reduce symptoms and give him the chance to regain more normalcy and independence for years to come.
Tom hopes it will allow him to get back to the things he loves most: spending time with his children, hiking more again, lifting weights, enjoying music and martial arts, and simply feeling comfortable in his own body again. One thing he jokingly says he wants most is being able to comfortably write his name left-handed again.
Unfortunately, insurance will not cover this procedure, leaving Tom responsible for nearly $30,000 completely out-of-pocket. Like many families, this was not an expense he ever imagined having to prepare for financially. Between the cost of the procedure itself, travel, recovery, and time away from work, the financial burden has become overwhelming.
Doctors told Tom they may be able to schedule the procedure as early as mid-June, giving hope that relief could finally be within reach.
Like anyone facing a procedure involving the brain, there are fears involved. Tom openly admits he’s nervous — not only about the drive and traffic, but about the fear of change itself. In his own words, “I like who I am.” More than anything, he hopes this procedure will help preserve his independence and allow him to continue being the father, friend, coworker, and person everyone knows and loves for many years to come.
If you know Tom, you know he is someone who spends his life helping other people without asking for anything in return. Now we are asking for help on his behalf.
Any donation, share, or words of encouragement truly mean the world to Tom and his family. Even if you are unable to donate, simply sharing this fundraiser could help us reach someone who can.
Thank you for supporting Tom during this journey. <3