My name is Michael Andrews. My Aunt Rhonda and Uncle Bob need some help, so with their permission, we've decided to start this fundraiser. If you know Rhonda and Bob, you know they are private people who don't ever ask for any help.

Rhonda and Bob Hughes have lived in Groton, NY, for over 50 years, born and raised in the Tompkins County Community. They married in 1999 and have raised three children - Deserae, Charles, and Nichole who have all lived in the community as well. Tragically a few years ago, they lost Nichole at age 28. Rhonda since spends her lunch breaks most days at the Clarke Street Cemetery, where Nichole was laid to rest. Much of their lives have been spent in the Village of Groton, and their dedication to the community is unquestionable.

Rhonda and Bob both have held countless benefits for the community; they helped friends and neighbors alike at the Groton American Legion Post 800 to help those in need. From Chicken BBQ’s, and dinners, they are always there to serve people in need of a helping hand. They have spent countless hours volunteering for these missions and raising money. Now we as a community need to rally behind them and offer that same helping hand that Rhonda and Bob have lent so many times to others.

On July 25th, Rhonda had a small mass removed from the side of her head, which was followed with headaches, shortness of breath, and a few trips back to the doctors. This past week she went again to the hospital, and an MRI discovered cancer up and down her spine. She was transported to Poughkeepsie, NY and is receiving radiation treatments. Her exact diagnosis at this time is unclear, and Bob will provide updates as things become more known.

Bob said to me, “You never truly know how much you love someone, until something is trying to take them from you!” So he is with Rhonda at her side in Poughkeepsie, where she will likely be for the next week or two, and doctors will be deciding to send her to Syracuse or Rochester after this round of Radiation, and a possible back surgery.

Bob obviously is by his wife’s side, and bills will start piling up without either of them working. So we’re asking the community to come together and help those who’ve given so much of their time and money to similar causes. As I was writing this I found this quote I felt was relevant...

“Kindness and helping others will return to you when you least expect it, and maybe when you need it.” Catherine Pulsifer